October 08, 2014

Today's Top Alzheimer's News

Radiologists use MRIs to find biomarker for Alzheimer's disease, the latest on Glen Campbell's battle with Alzheimer's, and success in a small study of reversing memory problems associated with early stage Alzheimer's disease (read more). 
 

Must reads

  • An October 7, 2014 Los Angeles Times article reported that a new "brain imaging technique that uses no radiation and no contrast agent appears to detect the earliest signs of impending cognitive decline in the elderly." According to the article, "Paired with an assessment that looks for other warning signs, researchers said the imaging test may offer an easy,  low-cost way to single out seniors at high risk of developing Alzheimer's disease for intervention before mental decline is evident. In a study of 148 seniors with no neuropsychiatric diagnosis and 65 with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, the imaging technique — called arterial spin labeling — detected a telltale spot of low blood flow in the brain's posterior cingulate cortex that predicted mental decline 18 months later."
  • An October 7, 2014 NBC Nightly News article highlighted Glen Campbell's battle with Alzheimer's and his last recorded song. According to the article, "Despite the progression of the disease, Campbell brightens when he sees his wife and amazingly, can still play the guitar. Experts say Alzheimer's patients often communicate in their "first language" as the disease progresses — for Campbell that language is music.The five-time Grammy winner and Country Music Hall of Famer went public with his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2011, hoping to raise awareness about the devastating disease."
  • An October 6, 2014 HealthDay News article reported that UCLA researchers have reported "success in a small study of reversing memory problems associated with early stage Alzheimer's disease by using a complex program of lifestyle changes, supplements and hormones." According to the article, "Of the first 10 patients treated, nine reported improvements in memory within three to six months, according to Dr. Dale Bredesen, a professor of neurology at the University of California, Los Angeles, who developed the program. The full regimen involves 36 components, and is tailored to the individual, Bredesen said. In general, it involves diet changes such as eliminating simple carbohydrates and processed foods; regular exercise; stress reduction; good sleep habits; supplements like fish oil, curcumin and vitamin D; and, in some cases, hormone therapy."