Alzheimer’s disease is frightening and debilitating. It robs people of memory, of the ability to be self-sufficient and, ultimately, of the ability to function. It creates a huge burden for families — emotionally, practically and financially.
And it is on the rise. More than 5 million Americans are estimated to have Alzheimer’s, about one in eight people over the age of 65. Worldwide, the number is estimated at about 35 million. By some predictions, the numbers will double by 2030 as medicine becomes better at treating illnesses that people used to die from before they became old enough to develop Alzheimer’s. Already, Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States.
For years, scientists have tried and failed to find treatments or therapies that can turn back the clock of Alzheimer’s, or at least stop it in its tracks. But recently, intriguing and promising scientific developments have been taking place. Scientists have made strides in identifying genetic mutations that increase the risk of Alzheimer’s, and in screening for proteins that accumulate in the brains and spinal fluid of people with Alzheimer’s. They have also developed more sensitive cognitive tests that can detect subtle changes in memory and thinking before full-blown dementia sets in.
All this presents new opportunities for science to develop effective therapies and to seek ways to prevent or delay the disease.
For more than two decades, The New York Times has been on the cutting edge of the Alzheimer’s story — chronicling the devastation of the disease, investigating treatment failures and clinical trials, and tracking tantalizing scientific clues. Our reporting has helped shape the direction of public policy and government funding. It has debunked myths and provided an honest and realistic look at the pitfalls and the promise of medicine.
And, in relating tales of courage, ingenuity, pain, fear and resilience, we have tried to shine a light on the glimmers of progress and hope.
This is an exciting and critical time in the story of Alzheimer’s disease. The stakes are very high.
— PAM BELLUCK
