May 15, 2014

Incidence of Dementia

"One in 9 Americans 65 and over currently have Alzheimer's.  Of the top 10 causes of death, Alzheimer's is the only one that can't be cured or prevented." Peter Jaret

These statistics appear to be just for Alzheimer's Disease.  Since Lewy Bodies Dementia is the second-most-often occurring type of dementia, these numbers are obviously much larger.  "cannot be cured or prevented" -- sobering.  But there is some good news:  "A heart-healthy diet, physical activity, and social and cognitive stimulation can help preserve cognitive function." Jason Karlawish, M.D.  But, these are not a guarantee.  For at least the past 20+ years my loved one had those things, but he and I wonder if exposure to leaded gasoline, when he worked to put himself through high school and college at a gas station, is not the cause of his dementia.  

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