The Prevalence of Alzheimer’s in Washington

Alzheimer’s disease poses a notable health challenge in Washington state. According to 2022 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Alzheimer’s ranked as the fourth leading cause of death in Washington, following cancer, heart conditions, and accidents.

Nationally, Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death, with heart diseases, cancer, unintended injuries, strokes, and chronic lower respiratory diseases ranking higher, according to the CDC.

The Alzheimer’s Association notes that Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of all cases. Dementia, a broader term, describes the loss of memory and cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life.The disease primarily affects individuals aged 65 and older and is often associated with beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain.

Why the Higher Death Rate in Washington?

The reasons behind the higher incidence of Alzheimer’s-related deaths in Washington compared to the national average remain unclear. However, several theories have been proposed by public health experts.

• Vitamin D Deficiency: One theory suggests that Washington’s cloud cover may contribute to lower vitamin D levels among residents. sunlight exposure is crucial for activating vitamin D in the skin, and low vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of developing dementia.
• Data Collection: Another speculation is that Washington may have more robust systems for collecting and verifying health data compared to other states.
• Coding Differences: Differences in how physicians and coroners recognize and code alzheimer’s as a cause of death could also play a role.

Notably, Alzheimer’s disease death rates in Washington have been even higher in the past. In 2016, it was the third leading cause of death, prompting public health officials to develop a roadmap to address the issue. This plan has been updated and extended, with ongoing initiatives planned through at least 2028 [2].

Prevention and Treatment Strategies

While the exact causes of Alzheimer’s remain elusive,the CDC highlights several lifestyle modifications that may reduce the risk of developing the disease:

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can significantly lower the risk of dementia.
• Avoidance of Harmful Substances: Minimizing or avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is crucial.
• Management of Chronic Conditions: Preventing or effectively managing diabetes and high blood pressure can also help reduce risk.
• Address Hearing Loss: Treating hearing loss, perhaps with devices like cochlear implants, may also be beneficial. Scientists suggest that hearing loss can strain the brain, diverting resources from memory and cognitive functions.

Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, various medications can help slow its progression and manage symptoms. These medications can aid with memory and cognitive function, as well as address related issues such as sleep disturbances, agitation, and hallucinations.