Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia and is projected to affect over 13 million people in the U.S. by 2050. It is a complex condition involving multiple biological pathways, often beginning 20–30 years before symptoms appear. Early signs may include memory loss and difficulty thinking clearly—though many individuals still pass standard neurological exams during this stage.

As the disease progresses, symptoms become more noticeable to family and friends. Tasks like naming familiar objects may become difficult, and cognitive decline can accelerate. Unfortunately, many are prescribed medications that offer little to no improvement, along with vague instructions to "plan for the future."

Treating Alzheimer’s is often compared to repairing a roof with 36 holes—there are many contributing factors that need to be addressed simultaneously. Fortunately, current research shows that Alzheimer’s can be prevented and even reversed in its earliest stages.

One of the most significant genetic risk factors is the ApoE4 gene. Everyone inherits two copies of the ApoE gene (one from each parent). Those who carry one or two copies of the ApoE4 variant have a dramatically increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease—up to 91% by age 68 if no preventive action is taken. In contrast, individuals with two copies of the more common ApoE3 variant carry a 15% lifetime risk.