When I began researching neurodegenerative diseases, I was struck by the constant stigma and healthcare inequities surrounding these conditions, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. Neurodegenerative diseases are often viewed as a result of aging, a major reason why they are often ignored in minority communities where diagnostic delays and a lack of access to care serve to worsen health outcomes. This disparity in treatment affects not only patients but also caregivers, both emotionally and financially.
Alzheimer’s disease is frequently misdiagnosed, particularly in minority communities, due to cultural stigmas and a lack of access to specialized care. Studies show that early diagnosis significantly improves both quality of life and access to treatment (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). On the other hand, late diagnoses often prevent patients from receiving treatment until the disease is in more advanced stages, making early intervention very important. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's and also face the challenge of having their symptoms overlooked due to gender biases in medical practice (American Alzheimer’s Association, 2022).
Recent advances in neuroscience, including biomarkers and neuroimaging, offer potential to reduce these healthcare disparities. For example, amyloid PET imaging, which detects amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s, has made early detection more accurate (FDA, 2023). However, access to these technologies remains limited, particularly in underrepresented communities. These limitations are due to the cost of care and the lack of sufficient healthcare available in marginalized areas (National Institutes of Health, 2020).
Equity in Alzheimer’s diagnosis is not only a medical concern but also a social one. Healthcare systems must recognize the diverse ways in which Alzheimer’s manifests, particularly in communities that are financially burdened. Disparities in diagnosis and care are not only an issue for individuals but also for the broader society, which loses the contributions of individuals who could live longer lives with appropriate intervention.
Alzheimer’s and similar diseases are not inevitable, and with the right resources, early diagnosis and intervention can lead to more manageable outcomes. However, barriers that we have placed among ourselves, such as socioeconomic status, must be addressed to ensure all individuals receive the care they deserve. In working toward a more equal healthcare system, we must focus on eliminating the stigma surrounding these diseases. Only then can we ensure that all patients, regardless of background, have access to the care they need and deserve.
This blog post is published as a part of our High School Science Journalism Fellowship Program.