Prevalence
The estimated global prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is 50 million and is projected to triple by 2050 due to growth in the older generation (Khoury, Patel, Gold, Hinds, & Grossberg, 2017). In the US, the number of people with Alzheimer’s dementias in 2018 stands at 5.5 million – 81% of them are aged over 75 years (Alzheimer’s Association, 2018). Age is a risk factor in AD onset; the older generation (>65 years) is the most affected. Its prevalence across the ages is 4%, 16%, 44%, and 36% for the <65, 65-74, 75-84, and 85+ years cohorts, respectively (Alzheimer’s Association, 2018).
Burdensome Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is associated with high morbidity and mortality, especially in older generations. According to Alzheimer’s Association (2018), AD is the fifth-ranking killer of persons in the >65 years age cohort in the US. Mortality often results from pneumonic complications in older patients. Further, affected individuals have to endure ill health for a long time before succumbing to AD-related complications. AD is ranked 12th leading burdensome conditions in the US, up from 25th in 1990 (Alzheimer’s Association, 2018). The lifetime cost of caring for an AD patient (including long-term care) is about $341,840 (Alzheimer’s Association, 2018).
Strategies for Preventing Alzheimer’s Disease
Evidence suggests that dietary modifications can delay cognitive deterioration. The Mediterranean diet comprising “fruits, vegetables, and fish” improves general mental functioning, memory, and language (Rakesh, Szabo, Alexopuolos, & Zannas, 2017, p. 126). This nutritional style is even more effective when combined with the Dietary Approach to Systolic Hypertension (DASH). Other nutrients that reduce the risk of AD are omega-3 fatty acids, folate, magnesium, and vitamin B 12 and vitamin D supplementation (Rakesh et al., 2017). Physical activity – aerobic exercise or fitness training – is also linked to improved cognitive function. Amelioration of psychological stress factors can improve cognitive function as well. Strategies such as exercise, sleep, and anti-inflammatory medication can reduce inflammatory responses that result in AD onset (Rakesh et al., 2017).
References
Alzheimer’s Association. (2018). 2018 Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. Web.
Khoury, R., Patel, K., Gold, J., Hinds, S., & Grossberg, G. (2017). Recent progress in the pharmacotherapy of Alzheimer’s disease. Drugs & Aging, 34(11), 811-820. Web.
Rakesh, G., Szabo, S. T., Alexopoulos, G. S., & Zannas, A. S. (2017). Strategies for dementia prevention: Latest evidence and implications. Therapeutic Advances in Chronic Disease, 8(8), 121-136. Web.