Photo: Dell Medical School – UT Austin
AUSTIN (KXAN) — A new study from the Dell School of Medicine at the University of Texas at Austin explores why Hispanic adults are more likely than Caucasians to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
Studies show that Hispanic adults are about 1.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than white adults. Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease that affects memory and thinking.
Even though Hispanics are 1.5 times more likely to develop the condition, the Alzheimer’s Association reports that Hispanic adults are only 18% more likely to be diagnosed and experience the degenerative disease. shows a discrepancy between diagnoses and adults who are
“Unfortunately, not many efforts have been made to recruit minority groups, particularly Hispanics, into Alzheimer’s research.Therefore, through this targeted research, we hope to reach the root causes of these health disparities.” I think,” says clinical neuropsychologist Robin Hilsabek. , Ph.D., Associate Professor of Neurology at Dell Med and Director of the Comprehensive Memory Center within the Mulva Clinic for the Neurosciences.
According to a Dell Med release, the Texas Alzheimer’s Research and Care Consortium has incorporated Hilsabeck’s research into a study “exploring the development of Alzheimer’s disease from a neurological perspective.” The study will incorporate memory tests and brain scans performed during annual visits with participants.
The study included Hispanic adults age 50 and older diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and adults diagnosed with dementia or other memory impairment. Prospective participants from racial and ethnic backgrounds are also considered.
According to Hilsabeck, it’s unclear why Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis rates are unequal across races and ethnicities. However, research has shown a correlation between a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and heart and blood vessel problems.
Statistically, Hispanics and African Americans are more likely than Caucasians to suffer from cardiovascular health problems and may be more susceptible to developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Cultural and economic issues, such as lack of access to insurance, low levels of insurance among minority community members, and lack of trust in doctors, can also contribute to inequality, Hilsabek added. .
“Early diagnosis makes a big difference in outcome. It can literally change the way the disease develops,” Hilsabeck said.
Early interventions such as exercise and social programs can help slow the progression of the disease.
If you are interested in participating in research, please contact Bertha Ortiz at 512-495-5871.
