Alzheimer's Disease: A Global Health Crisis
Alzheimer's disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, ranking seventh with 119,399 deaths in 2021. It is a degenerative and incurable brain disease that primarily affects older individuals, leading to symptoms such as memory loss and judgment lapses. As the disease progresses, it can affect various bodily functions, including balance, breathing, and digestion. Difficulty swallowing food without assistance is a common cause of death among Alzheimer's patients, as it can result in the inhalation of food or liquids into the lungs, leading to pneumonia. Early diagnosis is crucial for treatment and planning for the future.