Advances in Research and Treatment for Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD), is the most common form of dementia. Thereis no cure for the disease, which worsens as it progresses, andeventually leads to death. The cause and progression of Alzheimer'sdisease are not well understood. Research indicates that the diseaseis associated with plaques and tangles in the brain. Currenttreatments only help with the symptoms of the disease. There are noavailable treatments that stop or reverse the progression of thedisease. As of 2012, more than 1000 clinical trials have been or arebeing conducted to find ways to treat the disease, but it is unknownif any of the tested treatments will work.Because AD cannot be cured and is degenerative, the sufferer relies onothers for assistance. The role of the main caregiver is often takenby the spouse or a close relative. Alzheimer's disease is known forplacing a great burden on caregivers; the pressures can bewide-ranging, involving social, psychological, physical, and economicelements of the caregiver's life. In developed countries, AD is one ofthe most costly diseases to society.Research is the only hope to present and future patients and familiessuffering from this devastating disorder. This book compiles some ofthe most interesting articles on Alzheimer's disease published by PLoSjournals lately: from epidemiology and prevention to management andtreatment.