June 13, 2024- June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month and a new survey from Parade and Cleveland Clinic shows many Americans (69%) are thinking at least once a year about their risk of developing brain health issues such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. However, many do not get care when they experience symptoms, according to Cleveland Clinic.
In the survey, 36% of people under 50 and nearly one-fourth of individuals aged 50-64 said they have experienced memory or brain health issues but were too afraid to seek help. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia, in many cases, steps can be taken to reduce risk but are more effective before brain changes begin.
The survey results showed there is a need for increased education on gender disparity and the role of lifestyle in Alzheimer’s. While women overall showed higher concern than men that they may develop Alzheimer’s disease or dementia (57% for women vs. 50% for men), they didn’t seem to know that they are at an increased risk, according to Cleveland Clinic. Nearly half of women surveyed (48%) believe both men and women are equally likely to get Alzheimer’s or dementia and 28% said they had no idea if gender played a role. In addition, only 15% of women talk to their doctors about ways to optimize their brain health.