Dear Maryellen…
I see that you write extensively about Alzheimer’s disease in your blog. I think we might be dealing with the beginning of this with my mother, unfortunately, but we’re in the middle of tests right now, and we don’t know for sure. Is this awful disease preventable in any way? Joanne, Elmont, NY

Dear Joanne,
If I write so much about Alzheimer’s disease, it is because of its rampant and spreading prevalence in our nation’s rapidly aging boomer population. So many more people seem to suffer from it with every passing year — and not just individuals, but their families as well — that I feel the need to share whatever news I can about it whenever such information crosses my desk; especially, regarding its potential prevention. So, in response to your inquire, Jo-Ann, it turns out that new research does suggest that half of worldwide Alzheimer’s disease cases can be potentially prevented — and we can do so by making healthy lifestyle changes that are often associated with preventing other chronic health conditions. (more…)