Alzheimer's Affects Women More Than Breast Cancer

A new report from the Alzheimer’s Association shows 60 percent of alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers are women and they are 2 and half times more likely than men to be caring for someone with the disease 24-7.

Susan M. Galeas, the president and CEO of Alzheimer's Association California Southland Chapter, says the value of this is study is that people will get more information at an earlier stage of the disease.

More information, go to the Alzheimer's Association Southland Chapter

Women have a 1 in 6 chance in getting this over the age of 60 and a 1 and 11 chance of getting breast cancer makes this important not only for the women but for the nation, she said.

Dr. Bruce agrees and points out that “earlier diagnosis can help both the caregiver and the patient; leading to earlier emotional support and treatments that may help the patient and caregiver cope and plan.”

Dr. Bruce’s advice:

  • Since most memory loss in not Alzheimer’s, anyone who has trouble focusing or remembering things should seek an expert’s advice.
  • The workup should include memory tests, an exam and blood tests because there are treatable forms of dementia or short-term memory loss.
  • Since this study shows that women are affected, as patients and care gviers, much more than previously thought, women never hesitate to seek both medical and emotional support.
  • Alzheimer’s affects more than 5 million Americans but that number is expected to skyrocket to 14 million in the next several decades.
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