Alzheimer's

The podcast explores Alzheimer's disease and dementia from medical and public health perspectives, emphasizing the importance of early detection and modifiable risk factors. Patty Takawira from the Minnesota Department of Health highlights that 45% of dementia risk factors are potentially modifiable through lifestyle changes and managing conditions like midlife hypertension, obesity, and diabetes. The discussion clarifies the distinction between dementia as an umbrella term and Alzheimer's as its most common form, noting the higher prevalence and later diagnosis rates among Black and Hispanic communities. The panel also addresses the significant impact on caregivers, stressing the need for culturally sensitive support and resources, and touches on the economic implications of the disease.