Over the years, as we interact with patients and families, discussion about Cognitive Decline prevention is prominent, perhaps more so than any other hearing health topic that people ask about. That’s why we feel a strong sense of responsibility for you to be fully aware of this essential research:
SPECIAL REPORT American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment
Among the headlines are these direct excerpts, with bold emphasis:
Who’s Worried?
Worry about developing Alzheimer’s disease is common. In the survey, more than 4 in 5 U.S. adults (83%) expressed some level of worry, with more than 1 in 10 (12%) expressing a lot of worry.
Fewer than 1 in 5 Americans (16%) said they knew a lot about Alzheimer’s disease, and even fewer said they knew much about MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment) or other diseases that cause dementia.
Attitudes about Early Detection and Diagnosis:
The vast majority of Americans believe diagnosis at the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease is important.
• Nearly all (99%) Americans said it is important to diagnose Alzheimer’s in the early stages of the disease.
• Nearly 4 in 5 Americans (79%) would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before experiencing symptoms or before symptoms interfere with daily activities.
Current State of Early Detection and Diagnosis:
While not everyone experiencing cognitive decline has or will develop Alzheimer’s disease, early detection and diagnosis can offer deeper insight to help navigate potential next steps, including treatment options.
Accurate diagnosis currently hinges on combining evidence from medical history, neurological exams, cognitive assessments and brain imaging.
