During Black History Month, we celebrate some of our nation’s greatest achievements and honor remarkable, inspirational individuals from all walks of life. This February, spread Alzheimer’s awareness in your effort to recognize Black History Month.
Did you know…
Although whites make up the great majority of the over 5 million Americans with Alzheimer’s disease, available research shows that African Americans are at a higher risk. In fact, African Americans are about two times more likely than white Americans to have Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Although the rate of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in African Americans is higher than whites, they are less likely than whites to have a diagnosis of the condition.
When they are diagnosed, African Americans are typically diagnosed in the later stages of the disease, when they are more cognitively and physically impaired — and therefore need more medical care.
Genetic factors do not appear to account for the greater prevalence of — or greater risk for developing — Alzheimer’s disease. Better management of chronic health conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, may play an important role in controlling one’s risk.
Do your part by sharing the facts about Alzheimer’s disease. Find everything in the 2014 Facts and Figures report or check out this webpage about African Americans and Alzheimer’s disease.
There is a critical need for African American clinical trial participants. Join a study today through the Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch program and help move research forward tomorrow. Don’t just hope for a cure. Help us find one!
We know that February is Black History Month. But did you know that African Americans are at a higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia? Some experts say black elders are nearly two times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than white elders.
What can you do today to manage your risk for Alzheimer’s disease? Unfortunately, there is no proven method for preventing this disease, but researchers and scientists do have some tips that might help
Get active: If it’s good for your heart, then it’s good for your brain. Since African Americans have a higher rate of vascular (stroke-related) disease — which may be a risk factor for cognitive impairment — it’s important to engage in physical activity to reduce your risk.
Watch your blood pressure numbers: Prevention or control of high blood pressure helps maintain a healthy brain and promotes overall health. Adopt a fitness routine, eat healthy foods, don’t smoke and work to maintain a healthy weight.
Manage your cholesterol levels: A healthy brain and heart depend on maintaining normal cholesterol levels. Engage in regular physical activity and eat a diet low in saturated fat and high in fiber.
Prevent or control diabetes: Take steps to reduce your risk for diabetes by maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active. Prevention or control of diabetes promotes a healthy brain.
Overall wellness: African Americans are at a greater risk than white Americans for high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Because brain and heart health are so closely linked, it’s important to take good care of both. In addition, stay socially and mentally active to make sure your brain and your body can perform at their best.
Want to learn more? Check out our webpage on African Americans and Alzheimer’s disease.
Also, watch this video clip below to learn even more.
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