Alzheimer’s Cannot be Prevented, Says NIH Panel

The National Institutes of Health met outside Washington on Wednesday to discuss the effectiveness of preventative measures against Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, the panel of 15 experts could only come to the conclusion that Alzheimer’s is not preventable.

It was once thought that regular physical activity, brain-teasing puzzles, fish oil, and medication could help prevent Alzheimer’s. This information was based on many studies done over the years. The NIH carefully reviewed these studies and found no concrete evidence that taking any of these preventative measures will hinder the development of Alzheimer’s, a degenerative disease that breaks down brain function in the elderly.

The only suggestion the panel might find hope in is an active lifestyle. The experts have seen associations that people who exercise have less instances of Alzheimer’s. But even with this suggestive evidence, the panel cannot say regular exercise is the key to preventing the disease.

Dr. Martha Daviglus, a Northwestern University professor, explained, “These associations are examples of the classic chicken or the egg quandary. Are people able to stay mentally sharp over time because they are physically active and socially engaged or are they simply more likely to stay physically active and socially engaged because they are mentally sharp?”

Alzheimer’s disease is on the rise, as the projected number for Americans affected by the disease will reach 16 million by the year 2050. Currently, over 5 million Americans are diagnosed with the illness. Along with this rise in numbers will come a rise in health care costs.