Archive Report
Archive Report
Disease's Nature and Extent
Growing Awareness of Millions Afflicted
Alzheimer's is a devastating but little-understood disease fast gaining public recognition for its widespread occurrences among elderly people. It leaves its victims confused, disoriented, and ultimately dependent on others. Medical science has not yet found a way to prevent or cure this disorder of the brain. The Public Health Service1 estimates that it affects at least one person in 20 between the ages of 65 and 75, and every fifth person over 80. By some estimates, as many as 2.5 million Americans suffer from the disease. Since most of its victims are old people, who form the fastest growing segment of the population, the numbers of afflicted are expected to grow enormously in the coming years.
Alzheimer's disease, ...