Epigenetic Study, New Treatments Shift Alzheimer’s Research

Alzheimer’s cases in the U.S. have risen to more than 6 million, with one in nine people over 65 affected and lifetime dementia costs estimated at over $390,000, largely borne by families. Researchers are increasingly using large-scale data to study epigenetic contributors, including DNA methylation profiles from 1,919 ADNI samples processed with stringent quality control and normalization. Clinically, newly available amyloid-targeting infusion treatments are giving patients and families renewed hope and prompting expansion of treatment programs at medical centers. Prevention remains a focus: experts recommend healthy dietary patterns such as the MIND diet—leafy greens, berries, nuts, olive oil and more fish—to help reduce dementia risk. Awareness and caregiver support efforts are expanding during November's National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, with free virtual Alzheimer’s Association presentations offering communication strategies and caregiver self-care.