Scientists present Alzheimer's research update at confab

Sun Health Research Institute and its partners in the Arizona Alzheimer’s Consortium will have a free conference for the public to learn about progress in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 30 at the Renaissance Glendale Hotel & Spa, 9495 W. Coyotes Blvd.

The 10th annual event will feature presentations by leading physicians, researchers and scientists. Speakers include Joseph Rogers, Ph.D., president of Sun Health Research Institute, and Dr. Marwan Sabbagh, director of the Cleo Roberts Center for Clinical Research at Sun Health Research Institute.

A free buffet breakfast and lunch will be provided. Seating is limited, and registration is required by visiting www.azalz.org or by calling 602-239-6901.

The morning program features a community awareness forum, "Facing Alzheimer’s Together," with a focus on:

• Advances in diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease.

• Providing emotional support for caregivers.

• Physician and caregiver panel discussion with audience question-and-answer session.

The afternoon program is structured as a scientific forum, and morning session attendees are welcome to say for the afternoon session, featuring:

• Keynote speaker.

• Poster presentations.

• "Data blitz" presentations.

Alzheimer’s disease is the seventh-leading cause of death in the U.S., afflicting one in 10 people older than 65.

Treatments are available that improve the quality of life for some people with Alzheimer’s. Investigative treatments are being studied in clinical trials, and scientists have discovered several genes associated with the disease.

In addition, techniques are available to help people caring for a loved one with the disease.