African-Americans are at a higher risk for Alzheimer’s

February is Black History Month. African-Americans are two times more likely to develop late-onset Alzheimer’s disease than whites and less likely to receive an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, which results in less time for treatment and planning. Visit our African-Americans and Alzheimer’s portal for information on warning signs, research and care, as well as stories of African-Americans who’ve furthered efforts in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Many Americans dismiss the warning signs of Alzheimer’s, believing that these symptoms are a normal part of aging. This is of even greater concern for African-Americans, who aretwo times more likely to develop late-onset Alzheimer’s disease than whites and less likely to have a diagnosis of their condition, resulting in less time for treatment and planning. By working together, we hope to reduce the risk factors and reverse the growing trend of Alzheimer’s disease among African-Americans. Sign up for our e-newsletter and get the latest info on treatments, research and care.

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Dunk Alzheimer’s: Students raise money, awareness for Alzheimer’s cause

Jonathan Segal knows first-hand how hard it is to see someone you love battle Alzheimer’s. The North Shore Country Day School junior’s grandmother, Lisa Cohen, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at 60. At present, Cohen is 72 and in the advanced stages of the disease.
“She lived in the house with us for six months and my family cared for her. It was extremely difficult,” Segal said.

Jonathan Segal knows first-hand how hard it is to see someone you love battle Alzheimer’s. The North Shore Country Day School junior’s grandmother, Lisa Cohen, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at 60. At present, Cohen is 72 and in the advanced stages of the disease.

“She lived in the house with us for six months and my family cared for her. It was extremely difficult,” Segal said.
Looking to bring greater awareness and funds to the cause, Segal recently hosted the second Dunk Alzheimer’s basketball event at his Winnetka school. The January 25 tournament included school teams from throughout the area, and students had the opportunity to purchase and don purple Dunk Alzheimer’s shirts. Proceeds from the $20 shirts as well as individual contributions led a fundraising total of $6,300, tripling last year’s total.
“When I started doing this, I learned that half my friends have a connection to the disease,” Segal said. “People would say, ‘My uncle has it or my grandfather or my friend’s dad.’”

Student body president and senior Josie Santi, who lent a hand with the event, agreed about the importance of the cause.
“I feel like a lot of people aren’t educated about Alzheimer’s disease,” she said.

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Drug companies join NIH in study of Alzheimer’s and other diseases

Under a five-year collaboration, 10 drug companies and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have agreed to share scientists, tissue and blood samples, and data. The Accelerating Medicines Project (AMP) aims to decipher the biology behind Alzheimer’s disease, Type 2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and to identify targets for new drugs. The Alzheimer’s Association is involved in AMP as a steering committee member.

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In honor of Black History Month, a generous donor has stepped forward with an exciting opportunity. They will give $25,000 to the Alzheimer’s Association if we raise the same amount by Feb. 28!
We still don’t know what causes Alzheimer’s and why African-Americans are twice as likely to develop the disease as whites. To help address this, the donor’s generosity will support a novel research project called, African- American Genome Sequencing project, to understand genes that may be responsible for this increased risk. Importantly, this study could have major implications for developing targets for genetic testing, prevention and treatment, not only for African- American individuals, but for other races as well.

When you make your gift to this special challenge match today, it can have twice the impact and support our mission to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
Your tax-deductible donation of $50 can become $100, or a gift of $100 can become $200. Any amount you give by Feb. 28 can help us continue to work toward our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.

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Tote bag and wristband gift offer still available – Alzheimer’s Association

Our January Donor Drive is drawing to a close this week, and we’re counting on your support to see it finish strong — and you’ll receive a special gift as our thanks to you.
Become a monthly supporter by Jan. 31, and we’ll send you our signature tote, perfect for carrying groceries and more. If you make a monthly gift of $25 or more, we’ll send you our tote bag and #ENDALZ wristband as a special thank you for your generosity.
Monthly giving is easy and cost effective, and it makes a difference. It’s an important part of our efforts to fund Alzheimer’s care, support and research, allowing us to more efficiently budget our dollars throughout the year so we can one day realize our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.

Act now! Become a monthly supporter by Jan. 31 and you’ll receive this stylish Alzheimer’s Association reusable tote bag AND wristband.Supplies are limited.

If you share that vision, please help us make our January Donor Drive a success. Give today.

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