1 Modifiable Condition to Slow Alzheimer’s Disease

1 Modifiable Condition to Slow Alzheimer’s Disease
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Alzheimer’s disease takes a long time to progress. Is there any way to intervene at an early stage to slow its progression? In this article, we will discuss one factor for Alzheimer’s disease that can be modified within the first five years of diagnosis, as discovered by researchers.

Summary of Key Facts

  1. Individuals with steadily increasing symptoms of depression had a significantly higher incidence of Alzheimer’s disease.
  2. The best way to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease is to reduce depression levels early.
  3. The best time window to decelerate the progression of Alzheimer’s disease is within the initial five years, not beyond.

Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease Is Associated With Depression 

Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia and is responsible for around 60 to 80 percent of all dementia cases. It is a degenerative disorder that affects the brain, causing a progressive memory decline, thinking, and behavior, leading to loss of independence and eventually death.

Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, and it is considered irreversible. As the disease progresses, it becomes more debilitating and can devastate an individual’s quality of life, and that of their family and caregivers.

Stephanie Zhang, Ph.D.
Stephanie Zhang, Ph.D.
Author
Stephanie Zhang, Ph.D., is a columnist for The Epoch Times, focusing on brain and neurodegenerative diseases. She has over 20 years of research experience in neuroscience and neurotoxicity, and was a former research scientist in the Memory Impairment and Neurodegenerative Dementia (MIND) Center at The University of Mississippi Medical Center. She earned her doctorate in public health.
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