Making real gains in war on Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease develops slowly in the brain, often years before symptoms appear. Doctors have long focused on amyloid plaques and tau tangles, the hallmarks of the disease. Current drugs that target amyloid can slow decline somewhat but do not stop or reverse Alzheimer’s.

Researchers are now using new tools to better understand and treat the disease. Artificial intelligence is uncovering hidden genetic factors, blood tests may soon allow early detection, and brain monitoring technology is helping scientists see how neurons die. Studies are also exploring whether lithium deficiency or other biological processes play a role in Alzheimer’s.

The need is urgent. More Americans are living longer, and cases of Alzheimer’s are expected to rise from about 7 million in 2025 to nearly 19 million by 2050. The cost of care could reach $1.5 trillion a year. Without better treatments, families and healthcare systems will face overwhelming challenges.

At the same time, research on resilience offers hope. Some genes appear to protect against the disease, vaccines like BCG may lower risk, and healthy lifestyle choices such as exercise, diet, and social connection can help. Experts say almost half of Alzheimer’s cases could be delayed or prevented by reducing known risk factors.

Though there have been setbacks, scientists remain hopeful. With new technology, genetic research, and lifestyle studies, progress is moving quickly. Many believe that more effective treatments, and even prevention, may be within reach in the coming years.

For more information see Sy Boles “Making real gains in war on Alzheimer’s,” The Harvard Gazette, September 19, 2025.

Special thanks to Lewis Saret (Attorney, Washington, D.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.