As Black History Month is observed across the nation, experts are emphasizing the importance of addressing Alzheimer’s disease within the Black community. While the brain disease disproportionately affects people of color, advancements in treatments offer hope. Researchers are urging African Americans to take proactive steps to enhance their brain health.
Dr. Doris Molina-Henry, from the Alzheimer’s Therapeutic Research Institute at the University of Southern California, is at the forefront of efforts to combat Alzheimer’s. She leads the AHEAD study, which aims to delay memory loss before visible signs of Alzheimer’s emerge.
“I’ve always believed in prevention when possible. It’s encouraging that we’re targeting earlier stages of the disease. Alzheimer’s and dementia have no cure. Once brain damage occurs, it’s irreversible. Addressing the disease at earlier stages improves outcomes,” Dr. Molina-Henry explained.
Several factors contribute to the higher risk of brain diseases among Black individuals, including social inequalities. Additionally, historical distrust of medical systems, stemming from unethical experiments like the Tuskegee Study, contributes to lower participation in clinical studies.
The AHEAD study is actively enrolling participants, particularly middle-aged individuals with specific brain protein levels linked to Alzheimer’s, detectable through a simple blood test.
Dr. Molina-Henry emphasizes that everyone can promote brain health by maintaining social connections, staying physically active, and following a nutritious diet.
