If Alzheimer's disease is the sixth leading cause of death, and over five million Americans have been diagnosed, why is there no course of action to stop this widespread disease? Alzheimer’s disease can be characterized as a disease that disrupts mental function to the extent that death is inevitable ("Alzheimer's Association"). Unfortunately, this disease drowns out what used to be someone’s loved one into a person that is no longer recognizable. The causes and treatment options available to Alzheimer’s patients are not clearly established, which is why living in the different stages of this disease can be so excruciating. The human brain is composed of billions of cells called neurons. These neurons are the functional units of the brain …show more content…
Alzheimer’s is a disease that greatly affects the aging population, but that does not mean it is too early to take precautions. Studies are beginning to prove that higher level education can help diminish the chances of Alzheimer’s. “There are many theories about why education may help starve off dementia, including that it leads to better economic opportunity, which can propel healthier habits and better access to medical care. Another theory is that learning generates more neural connections, allowing brains to compensate longer when memory and cognitive functions falter.” In the light of education comes better knowledge of the capabilities of the human body. Comprehension of the body will enlighten people to the devastating effects of poor cardiovascular health. Obesity and diabetes are directly related to cardiovascular health. With obesity, plaque can easily produce obstructions throughout a person’s network of blood vessels causing an increase in blood pressure. Along with plaque build-up comes cholesterol, which hampers cardiovascular health to a greater extent (Belluck). High blood pressure can impaired blood flow to the brain causing a greater risk for a stroke to occur. Head trauma, such as a stroke, boosts one’s percentage of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Because the heart supplies the brain with oxygen and blood, it is important to monitor cardiovascular health closely (“Alzheimer’s Disease”). Health and education are predispositions that can ensure a longer cognitive functioning