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Dementia and Alzheimer's disease: resources in Oklahoma
R W Leech1, J Carella, G D Miner
1Section of Neuropathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73190.
Insights
Senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease are major causes of death and significant financial burdens. A new regional network aims to improve diagnosis and management for dementia patients in Oklahoma.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease are leading causes of death and incur substantial national costs.
- Clinical dementia diagnosis can stem from diverse pathological conditions presenting similar symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a regional network for improved diagnosis and management of dementia.
- To facilitate the dissemination of advanced treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
Main Methods:
- Collaboration between the Alzheimer's Association, Oklahoma Autopsy Assistance Network, and The Alzheimer's Foundation.
- Development of a regional network infrastructure for patient and family support.
Main Results:
- A concerted effort has been initiated to create a supportive network.
- Increased physician awareness of support organizations is crucial for treatment dissemination.
Conclusions:
- A collaborative regional network is being developed to address the challenges of dementia diagnosis and treatment.
- Enhanced physician awareness and utilization of support organizations will improve care for Alzheimer's disease patients in Oklahoma.
Abstract:
Senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease (often considered a single process) rank as the fourth most common cause of death in the United States and outrank in cost to the nation the three leading causes of death combined. Autopsy studies of patients with the clinical diagnosis of dementia have clearly shown that a wide variety of pathological conditions can produce clinically similar symptomatology. In order to address the many possible causes and treatments of these various forms of dementia, the Alzheimer's Association (formerly known as the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association), the Oklahoma Autopsy Assistance Network at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, and The Alzheimer's Foundation (also known as the Familial Alzheimer's Disease Research Foundation) have begun a concerted effort to develop a regional network which can aid patients and their relatives in the diagnosis and management of dementia. Awareness of these organizations by all physicians will help in the development and dissemination of the newer and more specific treatments to patients (and their relatives) with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia in Oklahoma.