Alzheimer’s is the 5 killer of Americans, but location and demographics play a big role, writes Jeremy Ney
puts it
, “Leqembi is not a cure for Alzheimer’s, and the drug doesn’t improve patients’ memories or cognitive abilities. It also does not stop the disease from getting worse.” The new drug just approved by the FDA can modestly slow down cognitive decline in patients who are in the early stages of the disease. But only about 1 million of the 6.7 million people with Alzheimer’s areto be eligible. While the cost of the care may be covered largely by Medicare, this drug will be out of reach for many.
Alzheimer’s continues to both create and reflect healthcare inequalities across the U.S. Rising death rates, new drugs, and recently available data have brought this conversation into the light. Meanwhile, Black communities, residents of Mississippi, and caregivers continue to suffer.