Can Alzheimer's be Stopped?

Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, has been described as a "death in life," progressively robbing its victim of memories, routines, recognition, and finally, life itself. With the increasing number of aging Baby Boomers, Alzheimer's has the potential to bankrupt our national healthcare system. Filmmaker Sarah Holt's PBS-aired NOVA documentary looks at contemporary efforts to slow and perhaps eventually prevent this terrible scourge. First diagnosed in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer, no cure for the disease currently exists, although medication can slow the progression in some cases. Alzheimer's is caused by plaques composed of amyloid protein, and research indicates that damage is present long before any symptoms become evident (up to 20 years sometimes), with progression really ramping up after age 65. Genetics and family history play an important role, as indicated by groundbreaking studies in Colombia, where some families show an almost 100 percent chance of becoming afflicted (the film also examines the sensitive issue of sharing genetic information with families, which could be an adverse trigger for any unstable potential victims). For pharmaceutical companies, huge investments are at stake, and the documentary follows the global race for a cure. Sadly, a "magic bullet" isn't likely, and a multi-pronged approach will probably offer the best chance for success. The documentary's most poignant segments show Alzheimer's patients struggling to hold onto hope, a reminder of the tragic cost of this horrendous disease. Offering a good combination of human interest stories and scientific information, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (S. Rees)