In Alaska, over 8,400 people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and more than 25,000 family members and friends are providing unpaid care. These figures underscore the urgent need for continued research, support, and resources in our fight against this devastating disease.
This year brought significant advancements in the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer’s. Here are five major breakthroughs from 2024 that hold promise for Alaskans and others impacted by the disease.
1. A New Era of Treatment with FDA-Approved Kisunla
In July 2024, the FDA approved Kisunla, the third treatment since 2021 shown to slow the progression of early Alzheimer’s. This milestone marked another step forward in providing individuals more time to live fully and plan for the future.
Dr. Joanne Pike, President and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, stated, “This is real progress… Having multiple treatment options is the kind of advancement we’ve all been waiting for.”
The Alzheimer’s Network for Treatment and Diagnostics (ALZ-NET) is now actively collecting data on these treatments in real-world settings, ensuring ongoing education for clinicians and families and expanding our understanding of their long-term outcomes.
2. Blood Tests Revolutionizing Early Diagnosis
Highly accurate blood tests for Alzheimer’s are on the verge of transforming how the disease is diagnosed. Studies reported in 2024 indicate that these tests could achieve 90% accuracy, making detection more accessible and timely.
Currently, many people experience delayed diagnoses due to reliance on expensive or invasive procedures. Blood tests could change this by offering a simpler way to detect Alzheimer’s-related brain changes earlier. Early diagnosis can pave the way for faster treatment, research participation, and better care planning, giving individuals and their families more control over their journey.
3. Navigating Care After Diagnosis: Addressing Gaps
A recent survey by the Alzheimer’s Association found that 97% of caregivers want more help navigating the complexities of dementia care. With 70% of caregivers citing coordination of care as a significant stressor, the need for comprehensive support services is clear.
This year, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services launched the GUIDE model, an eight-year pilot program to improve dementia care management. GUIDE aims to enhance quality of life for those living with dementia, reduce caregiver strain, and support individuals in remaining at home longer.
While the program is still expanding nationwide, the Alzheimer’s Association is participating and working to extend services like the Dementia Care Navigation Service to more communities, including Alaska.
4. Wildfire Smoke: A Hidden Dementia Risk
A groundbreaking study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2024 revealed that wildfire smoke poses a greater risk for dementia than other forms of air pollution.
In a decade-long study of 1.2 million people in southern California, researchers found that wildfire-related air pollution now accounts for over 70% of particulate exposure on poor air quality days. The risks are even more pronounced for individuals in marginalized communities.
This finding is particularly concerning for Alaskans, as wildfire seasons continue to grow more intense. Research suggests the tiny, toxic particles in wildfire smoke may be more harmful than those from other pollution sources.
5. Defining Alzheimer’s by Biology, Not Just Symptoms
This year, scientists updated criteria for diagnosing Alzheimer’s based on the biological changes in the brain, rather than relying solely on outward symptoms like memory loss. These changes, such as abnormal amyloid plaques and tau tangles, begin years before cognitive symptoms appear.
Defining Alzheimer’s biologically aligns the disease with how we approach conditions like cancer or diabetes, improving accuracy and early intervention. This shift is essential for tailoring treatments and preparing individuals and families for what lies ahead.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on these advancements, it’s clear that 2024 has brought new hope and challenges in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Whether through groundbreaking treatments, improved diagnostic tools, or better caregiver support, progress is being made — but there’s more work to do.
To learn more about Alzheimer’s research, caregiving resources, or ways to get involved in Alaska, visit the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this disease.
ALZ Alaska Blog 
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