Alzheimer's disease (pronounced Altz-hi-merz) is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the brain and results in impaired memory, thinking and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia that affects over 4 million Americans. More than 100,000 die of Alzheimer's Disease annually, which makes it the fourth leading cause of death in adults, after heart disease, cancer and stroke.

The disease, first described by Alois Alzheimer in 1907, knows no social or economic boundaries and affects men and women almost equally. Most victims are over 65; however, Alzheimer's Disease can strike in the 40s and 50s. Most Alzheimer's Disease victims are cared for at home, although many persons in nursing homes have dementia. Alzheimer's Disease is devastating for both victims and their families and has been called "the disease of the century."

The cause of Alzheimer's Disease is not known and is currently receiving intensive scientific investigation. The National Institute on Aging heads up the federal government efforts. Suspected causes include a genetic predisposition, a slow virus or other infectious agents, environmental toxins, and immunological changes. Other factors also are under investigation. Scientists are applying the newest knowledge and research techniques in molecular genetics, pathology, virology, immunology, toxicology, neurology, psychiatry, pharmacology, biochemistry and epidemiology to find the cause, treatment, and cure for Alzheimer's Disease and related disorders.

Symptoms include a gradual memory loss, decline in ability to perform routine tasks, disorientation in time and space, impairment of judgment, personality change, difficulty in learning, and loss of language and communication skills. As with all dementia's, the rate of disease progression in Alzheimer's patients varies from case to case. From the onset of symptoms, the life span of an Alzheimer's victim can range anywhere from 3 to 20 or more years. The disease eventually leaves its victims unable to care for themselves. While a definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is possible only through the examination of brain tissue, which is usually done at autopsy, it is important for a person suffering from any symptoms of dementia to undergo a thorough clinical examination. There is no single clinical test to identify Alzheimer's Disease. Before diagnosis of the disease is made, other conditions must be excluded. These include potentially reversible conditions such as depression, adverse drug reactions, metabolic changes, nutritional deficiencies, head injuries and stroke.  In fact, after a proper medical evaluation, approximately 20% of suspected Alzheimer's cases prove to be a medical condition other than Alzheimer's, sometimes treatable. Each person with possible Alzheimer's Disease symptoms should have a thorough evaluation. The evaluation should include a complete health history, thorough physical examination, neurological and mental status assessments, and diagnostic tests including blood studies, urinalysis, electrocardiogram and chest x-rays. Other studies often recommended include: computerized tomography (CT Scan), electroencephalography (EEG), removal from medication, formal psychiatric assessment, neuropsychological testing, and occasionally, examination of the cerebrospinal fluid by spinal tap. While this evaluation may provide a clinical diagnosis, confirmation of Alzheimer's Disease requires examination of brain tissue, which is usually performed at autopsy.

Although no cure for Alzheimer's Disease is available at present, good planning and medical and social management can ease the burdens on the patient and family. Appropriate medication can lessen agitation, anxiety and unpredictable behavior, improve sleeping patterns and treat depression. Physical exercise and social activity are important, as are proper nutrition and health maintenance. A calm and well-structured environment may help the afflicted person to maintain as much comfort and dignity as possible.

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