New Alzheimer's/Dementia Evaluation Program Draws a Parallel to the Prevention of Heart and other Cardiovascular Diseases

Alzheimer's Disease is a neurological disorder of the brain. No cure exists, drugs don't work, and 4.5 million Americans are affected. Dr. Frederic J. Vagnini, a heart specialist who dedicates his practice to prevention, has begun a new Alzheimer's/Dementia Evaluation Program to prevent heart and other cardiovascular diseases that will also ward off or diminish the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's.."

New York, NY (PRWEB) October 29, 2005 -- Alzheimer's Disease is a neurological disorder of the brain. No cure exists, drugs don't work, and 4.5 million Americans are affected. Dr. Frederic J. Vagnini, a heart specialist who has dedicated his practice to prevention, has begun a new Alzheimer's/Dementia Evaluation Program for his patients, because, as he puts it, "The steps taken to prevent heart and other cardiovascular diseases will also ward off or diminish the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer's."

Dr. Vagnini takes his cue from today's advances in functional neurology research, which has found that the same conditions and lifestyle factors that increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke also increase the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's Disease. Proven in research conducted among 9,000 adults in a study sponsored by Kaiser Permanente in California, study findings indicate that the known cardiovascular risk factors are predictors of dementia:

-Diabetics were 46% more likely

-Individuals with high cholesterol were 42% more likely

-Smokers were 26% more likely

-those who had hypertension were 24% more likely

When researchers looked at a combination of the risk factors, they found the risk for dementia increased from 27 for having all four risk factors, compared with having no risk factors at all, meaning a person with all of these risk factors is more than twice as likely to suffer dementia.

"I have always prescribed vigorous exercise for my patients to prevent heart disease. Now, we have proof that aerobic and cardiovascular exercise protects against dementia. The new Alzheimer's/Dementia Evaluation Program that I have designed will put patients suspected of dementia on that same track," states Vagnini

Five Questions and Answers about Alzheimer's Risk and Prevention:

1. How does exercise lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease?

The researchers do not know exactly how exercise works to lower A.D. risk, but exercise increases blood flow and counters arterial plaques, which are a factor in A.D. People on a vigorous exercise program have significantly reduced their risk of dementia.

2. How early in life might Alzheimer’s Disease strike?

A.D. is a progressive disease. Usually symptoms are recognized late in late life. Medical authorities estimate that 50% of the population over 85 has some form of dementia. If the disease develops rapidly in an individual case, diagnosis can be made as early as in the 50's. Moreover, in such a case, a genetic factor is involved.

3. Can Alzheimer's Disease be diagnosed in a visit to the doctor?

The diagnosis of A.D. is made by exclusion; that is, by ruling out other causes of the patient's symptoms, such as stroke or depression. The Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE, a single page test administered orally in the doctor's office) is widely used to assess cognitive impairment. If dementia is suspected, the patient is referred for a radiological imaging of the brain, a PET scan, which can be more conclusive.

4. What is the distinction between Alzheimer's Disease and dementia?

A.D. is a form of dementia. Other forms of neurological disorders of the brain exist, but Alzheimer's is the most common, most lethal, and progresses to death. Although some can be treated successfully, the definitive diagnosis of A.D. can only be made in an autopsy.

5. What can you do in the doctor's office for someone at risk for or suspected of Alzheimer's Disease?

Because of today's research in brain function, more is known about A.D., nutritional factors involved, and lifestyle therapies that work to prevent it. In addition, clinical practice must begin preventive evaluations. A neurological assessment with the possibility of A.D. in an early stage must be made. So far, drugs have not been successful in treating A.D. However, prudent preventive steps can be taken. Dr. David Perlmutter, renowned neurologist and author of a bestseller, "The Better Brain Book,” argues that we should not give up on finding a cure. His research has found antioxidant nutrients C and E vitamins to be effective in warding off dementia. In addition, glutathione, a master anti-oxidant protein obtained in fruits and vegetables, enhances brain function taken as a food supplement as well as administered intravenously. In addition, ginkgo biloba has been reported to slow down A.D.

For more information or to schedule an interview please contact Frederic J. Vagnini MD, FACS at 1-888-HEART-90 or 516-369-2040.

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