MUST READS

An August 1, 2017 AlzForum article looked at how brain amyloid imaging is changing Alzheimer’s diagnosis and treatment. In addition to the IDEAS study in the United States, Alzheimer’s Biomarkers in Daily Practice (ABIDE) amyloid scans changed diagnoses or treatment plans about one-fourth of the time. The European AMYPAD study, which will analyze about 6,000 brain scans, is enrolling now. According to Kejal Kantarci of the Mayo Clinic, “The findings will likely have a significant impact on clinical practice, and perhaps set the stage for similar studies involving other upcoming AD biomarkers.” 

A July 30, 2017 The Washington Post obituary celebrated the life and work of renowned neuroscientist, Marian Diamond, who died last week at the age of 90. She provided the first hard evidence of the brain’s plasticity in the early 1960’s, studied Albert Einstein’s preserved brain, and taught for decades at the University of California at Berkeley. Diamond outlined five factors crucial to brain development at any age: diet, exercise, challenge, newness and love. 

DISPARITIES SPOTLIGHT

An August 2, 2017 WFPL radio segment and article focused on Memory Sunday, an educational program at African American churches about Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that African Americans have consistently higher rates of Alzheimer’s than whites. A collaboration of the University of Kentucky and Balm in Gilead, more than 60 churches signed onto the program. Anyone can access the online workbook, which includes information on Alzheimer’s, specific strategies to help caregivers, and suggestions for relevant prayers and scripture to create a supportive network.

REGIONAL PERSPECTIVES

An August 2, 2017 St. Louis Post-Dispatch article spotlighted “After I’m Gone: Recipes for the Hereafter,” a cookbook of favorite recipes from Lee “Popie” Shapiro, who died last month from complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Her family is offering the book for sale, with all proceeds going to Alzheimer’s research, 24-years after Popie self-published it. According to her son, Ken, the book is to honor his mother’s memory to help conquer the disease that overtook her.

A July 8, 2017 The San Diego Union-Tribune article reported on the University of Southern California’s expanded programs, including a recently established center for Alzheimer’s research. The center is part of the university’s ambitious efforts to tackle major societal issues such as medical care, homelessness, the economy and the status of veterans.