Expert Commentary by David Hunter, MD
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Its Impact
Alzheimer’s disease, named after the German pathologist Dr. Alois Alzheimer, is a progressive brain disorder that impairs memory and daily functioning. The number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s is predicted to rise from 6.9 million in 2020 to nearly 14 million by 2060 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
Alzheimer’s vs. Dementia
Dementia is a broad term denoting memory loss due to various causes, with Alzheimer’s being the most common. Alzheimer’s is characterized by protein deposits called amyloids forming plaques in the brain. Other dementia causes include depression, sleep apnea, and strokes.
Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s symptoms appear long before any dementia diagnosis. Early signs may manifest as vague feelings of cognitive decline, leading to amnestic mild cognitive impairment—difficulty forming new memories and repeated questions or forgotten events.
Evaluating Alzheimer’s Disease
Recent advancements include reliable blood tests, such as detecting the protein Ptau-217, and cognitive exams like the Mini-Mental Status Exam or Montreal Cognitive Assessment. An MRI is also recommended to rule out other brain conditions.
Advances in Treatment
While there is no cure, significant progress has been made. Patients now have access to amyloid PET scans to confirm Alzheimer’s diagnosis and two FDA-approved anti-amyloid drugs, Leqembi and Kisunla. These drugs help reduce amyloid plaques by utilizing the body’s immune system.
Future Prospects in Alzheimer’s Care
Early intervention with approved treatments can extend healthy life years for patients with mild cognitive impairment. Ongoing trials aim to improve prevention strategies.
UTHealth Houston’s Commitment
UTHealth Houston focuses on enhancing Alzheimer’s care and shifting toward prevention. Collaborating with the Neurosciences Neurocognitive Disorders Center and the Institute on Aging, they aim to broaden patient access and outreach. The recent Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas initiative will also bolster Alzheimer’s research funding significantly.
In the upcoming decade, UTHealth Houston aspires to redefine Alzheimer’s care and prioritize prevention strategies, aiming for a healthier future for all.
