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Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a progressive brain disorder that causes gradual and irreversible loss of higher brain functions, including memory, language skills, and perception of time and space. AD is the most common cause of the loss of mental function in the people over the age of 65. Among individuals around the age of 65, 5% - 10% have AD, and this proportion increases with age. Unfortunately we still do not know what causes AD, nor do we know how to cure it. Since there is no cure for AD, current treatment focuses on lessening its symptoms.

A key step in the progression of AD seems to be an accumulation of a certain protein in the brain's gray matter and neuro-fibrillary tangles within neurons. There is also substantial loss of neurons and the synapses connecting them through the neocortex.

We have made significant progress in understanding some of the factors leading to AD, but it is likely that the disease will continue to be a major health problem for a long time. The scientific progress in the ability to diagnose the disease and improvements in its treatment offer hope.

 

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