Although the causes of Alzheimer's disease are not known Brigham Young University researchers have played a major role in discovering a new Alzheimer's risk gene.
Dr. Keoni Kauwe told those attending a Cache County Alzheimer's Caregivers Coalition workshop Thursday night, "Our research is a huge jump in learning about a gene associated with the immune system that is linked to a higher risk for the disease."
On KVNU's Crosstalk show Thursday[1] Kate Nederostek, Director of Programs for the Utah Alzheimer's Association, said that unfortunately the number of cases of the disease is growing rapidly.
"Within the past 12 years we have seen a 45% increase in the incidence of Alzheimer's disease just here in Utah," Nederostek said. "Utah is actually on course to be the number one state in regards to increased percentages."
She said the costs for a single patient per year are in excess of $100,000.
Jessica Tarbet of the Cache Valley Caregivers Coalition said the organization is there to help both patients with Alzheimer's and their family members.
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