Diabetes Increases Likelihood of Alzheimer's
In the past few years, several studies have linked diabetes with Alzheimer's. The latest study, presented in Madrid by the Alzheimer's Association on Sunday, July 16th suggested that people with Type 2 diabetes - the most common type that is usually associated with obesity - are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer's as healthy people of the same age and sex.
Although the reason for the connection is unknown, many researchers reason that cardiovascular problems caused by diabetes contributes to dementia and Alzheimer's by blocking blood flow to the brain or possibly causing strokes.
Alzheimer's Becoming a Healthcare Epidemic
The association also reported a dramatic increase in Alzheimer's - even not taking into account the connection with diabetes. According to the report:
Alzheimer's currently affects one in 10 people under 65 and nearly half of the population over 85. The number of patients is expected to reach 11-16 million by 2050. This projection does not consider the possible increase to the connection with diabetes.
Currently, 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer's and caring for them cost $100 billion per year. John Morris, an advisor to the association and a neurology professor at Washington University in St. Louis, said, "Alzheimer's is going to swamp the healthcare system."
The Good News.
The study also reported that efforts to prevent or manage diabetes may lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's and suggested that certain diabetic drugs should be tested to see if they may help Alzheimer's patients - even those that do not have diabetes.
Annie Austin - Annie Austin is a freelance writer/producer working primarily in the advertising and marketing field. She's worked with hospitals, ...
