news-record.com

Two recent Alzheimer’s studies offer exciting promise that their findings can be used to improve treatments of this disease, the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States.

One study, published Feb. 8 in the journal Science, reported that a cancer drug quickly and dramatically improved brain function and social ability and restored the sense of smell in mice bred with a form of Alzheimer’s disease. The findings suggest a new way to tackle the illness in people.

According to another new study, published in the Feb. 1 issue of PLoS One, Alzheimer’s disease spreads through the brain by jumping from one cell to another. These new clues might help scientists find a way to stop the disease from getting worse.

As major supporters of the Alzheimer’s Association, members of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association are heartened by these developments. Since 1985, NARFE members have played a important role in the campaign to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, donating more than $9 million for research. The association is the principal charity supported by NARFE.

NARFE Greensboro Chapter 211 is proud to be a part of this effort to rid the nation of this debilitating disease.

Jerry Pifer
Greensboro

The writer is president, NARFE Greensboro Chapter 211.