Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease: New Research and Breakthroughs
Alzheimer’s Disease is a neurodegenerative disorder, meaning it progressively impairs neurological functions—most notably, those of the brain. It is the leading cause of dementia, a syndrome characterized by memory loss, mood swings, personality changes, and disrupted sleep patterns.
While there have been breakthrough studies in recent years, much remains uncertain. These studies offer hope, but many elders and their families are left asking what’s fact and what’s false hope. For those newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the lack of clarity is especially daunting.
Alzheimer’s: A Default Diagnosis
Alzheimer’s is often considered a default diagnosis, meaning doctors arrive at this conclusion only after ruling out other potential causes of dementia. Some experts even suggest that Alzheimer’s might not be the cause of dementia but rather a symptom of an underlying condition yet to be fully understood.
This diagnostic uncertainty has fueled the question: “How can we achieve a breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research if we still don’t fully understand what the disease is?” Dr. Dale Bredesen, Professor of Neurology at UCLA, has approached this very question in his groundbreaking research.
Dr. Bredesen’s Research: The 3 Types of Alzheimer’s Disease
Dr. Bredesen conducted metabolic testing on 50 Alzheimer’s patients over two years and identified three distinct subtypes of the disease:
- Inflammatory Alzheimer’s
- Linked to high levels of C-reactive proteins, which promote inflammation.
- Non-inflammatory Alzheimer’s
- Associated with insulin resistance and metabolic abnormalities like blood sugar imbalances.
- Cortical Alzheimer’s
- Characterized by unique brain activity and distinct dementia symptoms, with a common underlying factor of zinc deficiency.
Implications for Treatment
What makes Dr. Bredesen’s findings so compelling is the idea that each subtype of Alzheimer’s requires a different treatment approach. If confirmed, this research suggests that previous treatment failures may have occurred because therapies were applied without considering the specific Alzheimer’s subtype.
This insight opens the door to revisiting older studies with a new lens—potentially leading to more effective treatments tailored to each type of Alzheimer’s. Dr. Bredesen’s work also underscores how much we still don’t know about Alzheimer’s and highlights the importance of continuing research to combat this disease.
The Urgent Need for Alzheimer’s Research Funding
The Alzheimer’s Association has been actively advocating for increased funding. Harry Johns, President and CEO of the organization, has stressed to Congress that more resources are needed to advance Alzheimer’s research.
The financial burden of Alzheimer’s care is already enormous. According to the Association, one in five Medicare dollars is spent on Alzheimer’s care, with costs projected to rise as the population ages. More research funding could alleviate these long-term financial pressures by developing effective treatments and early interventions.
Looking Forward: Hope for Alzheimer’s Treatment
Dr. Bredesen’s study is a reminder of how much there is still to learn and discover about Alzheimer’s. It also offers hope that, with the right focus, future breakthroughs may lead to more effective and personalized treatments for those living with this disease. If you or a loved one has been affected by Alzheimer’s disease, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Contact Concierge Care Advisors today for a free consultation, and let us guide you toward personalized care solutions that meet your family’s needs.
