Alzheimer’s column: Hispanics and Alzheimer’s
By Scott Finley, Media Relations Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association® in Texas
Sep 19, 2021
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We are into National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

The time from September 15 to October 15 is when we celebrate histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. 

Here in Texas, the Hispanic population is growing by leaps and bounds.  Hispanics now make up nearly 40% of the state’s population. 

Alzheimer’s disease is keeping up with this growth.  

Older Hispanics are about one and one-times as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias as older Whites, but three out of 10 Hispanics don’t believe they will live long enough to develop dementia.

As reported in the 2021 Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures Report, a major issue in this population group getting treatment is that 33% of Hispanic Americans believe discrimination is a barrier to Alzheimer’s and dementia care.

Hispanics are twice as likely as Whites to say they would not see a doctor if experiencing thinking or memory problems.

Hispanic Americans are more likely to have Alzheimer’s and other dementias, but are less likely to be diagnosed than White Americans.

Meanwhile, Alzheimer’s kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined and Alzheimer’s and dementia deaths have increased 16% during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Early detection is key to maximize living with this disease. Know the Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s:  www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

And just a reminder – you can always get the latest information about the Association’s COVID-19 emergency preparedness guidelines for Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers in long-term or community-based care settings here: https://alz.org/professionals/professional-providers/coronavirus-covid-19-tips-for-dementia-caregivers 

The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900. 

Scott Finley is Media Relations Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association® in Texas.  He can be reached at scfinley@alz.org