Friday, February 10, 2012

Bexarotene for Alzheimer's


A long prescribed skin cancer medication, Bexarotene, may offer a relief from Alzheimer's Disease by attacking harmful amyloid beta proteins. Though the medication may not be able to revive dead cells, early detection and treatment may prove beneficial for slowing or halting the onset of symptoms. Researchers intend to verify their findings and escalate their testing beyond laboratory mice to explore the potential for this medicine's use.

Showing unprecedented potential for helping the brain clear harmful protein buildup, researchers found that bexarotene rapidly clears 75% of amyloid beta in mice. This protein is known to strangle the synapses preventing the communication between cells and resulting in their demise. If further trials prove to be as effective, bexarotene may be implemented as an early stage treatment.

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Government Alzheimer's Research Funding


The Obama administration has set forth a plan for Federal Government Alzheimer's research funding amounting to nearly $156 million over the next two years. This funding will be set forth in a multiphase approach beginning with $50 million. Finances are set to be directed toward preventing Alzheimer's, however, a portion of the proceeds will go to treatment offices.

Alzheimer's disease affects over 5 million Americans and starts with mild memory loss but progresses to confusion, disability, and death. Estimates suggest that at the current rate of diagnosis, the number of individuals with Alzheimer's could double in the next generation. This would set treatment costs at over $1 Trillion annually.

The current Government Alzheimer's research funding, even with this commitment, falls millions short of funding for other debilitating conditions such as cancer and heart disease. This act by the Obama administration is being seen as a good faith gesture to American researchers, treatment providers, and those afflicted.

The installment plan set forth for Government Alzheimer's research funding in 2012 begins with a $50 million award to begin the year. It is expected that Obama will ask for the approval of another $80 million later in the year, all for research to cure or prevent dementia. This will be supplemented by $26 million specifically for treatment programs.

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Alzheimer's Skin Care


When combined with the natural aging process, lack of mobility, and advanced breakdown, Alzheimer's skin care is a primary concern. As the disease continues to progress, the skin becomes thinner and more likely to open resulting in sores that are not only painful, but can become seriously infected. Proper skin care will help patients with Alzheimer's to avoid discomfort and serious illness.

The first and most important element to Alzheimer's skin care is facilitating a clean and healthy environment. This means ensuring that the individual remains as mobile as possible. If they have difficulty rising from a chair or bed, use cushions, pillows, and help rotate the person so that weight is properly distributed. In addition to regular movement and rotation, keep clothing, bedding, cushions, and pillows clean and dry.

As important to positioning and environment for Alzheimer's skin care is treating the skin itself. Regularly inspect, clean, and lotion the skin. This will reduce the chance of damage and infection while protecting the skin from future concerns. If a sore or degraded skin is found, there is a wide array of wound care products available for cleaning, treating, and protecting the wound to facilitate the healing process.

Preventative treatment is an essential step for proper Alzheimer's skin care. Using daily cleansing agents and lotions to maintain moisture can reduce drying, cracking, and soreness. Additionally, consider range of motion exercises to enhance circulation.