June is globally recognized as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, affecting nearly 55 million people worldwide, and it’s characterized by a progressive decline in cognitive function, including memory loss, impaired thinking, and changes in behavior. It accounts for an estimated 60–70% of dementia cases and most commonly develops in individuals over the age of 65.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that was first identified by German psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer in 1906. He described the condition after observing unusual changes in the brain of a patient (Auguste Deter) who had experienced memory loss, language difficulties, and behavioral changes. The condition was later named “Alzheimer’s disease” by German psychiatrist Emil Kraepelin in recognition of Alzheimer’s work.
Researchers are still working to fully understand the causes of Alzheimer’s disease. They believe Alzheimer’s disease develops as a result of a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. One of the strongest known genetic risk factors is a variation of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene, which plays a role in how the body processes fats.
Statistics on Alzheimer’s and Treatment
Researchers estimate that the global prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease could increase to 78 million people by 2030 and 155 million by 2050.
While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, recent advances have led to FDA-approved treatments such as Kisunla® (donanemab) and Leqembi® (lecanemab). In clinical studies, these therapies have demonstrated an ability to slow disease progression in certain patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
Our Part in June
Our goal is to put quality components into the hands of those who are treating this disease. That is why we launched REAP: Component Supply’s Research and Awareness Program. We want patients nationwide to REAP the benefits of advancements in medical device research and development aimed at improving diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life.
Each month, we offer discounts on orders and spotlight researchers through our blog and social media.
How Do You Get Involved with CS REAP?
If you’re currently researching Alzheimer’s disease, all you have to do is:
And that’s it! Upon returning the survey, you will receive a discount code to use in our online store. We’ll turn the survey into a blog post and share and promote it through our social media channels, including LinkedIn and Facebook. And of course, we’ll send it to you too, so you can share it with your community.
From diagnostic technologies and drug delivery systems to neurostimulation devices and laboratory research equipment, medical device innovation continues to play an important role in advancing Alzheimer’s research. We’re honored to support the teams working toward better outcomes for patients and caregivers alike.
Let’s REAP the benefits, together.
Resources
Alzheimer’s Association.
https://www.alz.org/abam
Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation.
https://www.alzinfo.org/
Alzheimers.gov
https://www.alzheimers.gov/
