1. Alzheimer’s Disease What is Alzheimer’s Disease and what happens to the brain of someone affected by the disease?

2. Introduction Changes Cell death 2013 – 44,35 million 2030 – 75,62 million 2050 – 135,46 million

3. The affects on the brain and symptoms Nerve cells – signal system – formation of memories, thoughts and feelings. Brain activity change – disruption of nerve cell communication Plaques and Tangles Early stage – difficulties in learning, thinking, planning and memory. Mild to moderate stages – difficulties in speaking, understanding, location and coordination. Severe stage – Brain shrinkage. Difficulties in comunication, recognizing family. Unable to take care of themselves.

4. Risk factors Age Inheritance Genes High blood pressure, coronary artery diseases, diabetes & cholesterol Female Severe head injuries Low educational level

5. Medication and treatment Cholinesterase inhibitors Memantine Non-Medication treatment Suggestions for reducing the risks

6. Summary Cause: Death in brain cell Type: Severe Affects: Mainly elderly Cure: No, reserach in progress

7. Sources Crystal, Howard., Shiel Jr, William C. and Marks, Jay W. (2013) Alzheimer’s Disease Causes, Stages and Symptoms (Cont.) pp 4, 8 & http://www.medicinenet.com Alzheimer’s Association. Inside the Brain: An Interactive Tour http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_4719.asp Alzheimer’s Association. Medications for Memory Loss http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_standard_prescriptions.asp Prince, Martin., Guerchet, Maëlenn. and Prina, Matthew. (December 2013) Policy Brief for Heads of Government The Global Impact of Dementia 2013–2050, p3 Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), London. http://www.alz.co.uk/research/GlobalImpactDementia2013.pdf Nordqvist, Christian. (Tuesday 23 July 2013) How to prevent Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Medical News Today. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263769.php