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Letter to the Editor: Alzheimer's disease is the ultimate thief

Editor:

On the heels of the big Oscar win for the film “Still Alice,” many of us are asking ourselves “Am I at risk for Alzheimer’s?” The answer is, if you have a brain, you are at risk. 

Alzheimer’s disease is a global epidemic. Worldwide, at least 44 million people are living with the disease. 

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States. It kills more Americans than diabetes, and more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.

More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to grow to as many as 16 million by 2050.

More than 15 million Americans are Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers, fulfilling a financially, emotionally and physically draining role.

Alzheimer’s disease is the ultimate thief — a thief of memories, independence, control and ultimately, life.

  There are 18,000 Montanans living with this disease, and 47,000 caregivers going through the “long goodbye” right now. You are not alone. Alzheimer’s Association is here to help those facing Alzheimer’s disease via our 24/7 Helpline, 800-272.-3900, or award-winning website at http://alz.org/montana. You can also contact us at the Montana Chapter office 406-252-3053 and request a care consultation, find a caregiver support group, enroll in Trialmatch, or get involved in the Longest Day event June 21 or a Walk to End Alzheimer’s in September. 

Charlotta Eaton, MD (retired)

Billings

Leadership Board Chair

American Alzheimer’s Association, Montana chapter

 

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