Alzheimer’s disease is a widespread disease of aging that is caused by slow, progressive damage to parts of the brain. It causes a steady loss of memory and ability to speak, think and conduct daily living activities. Alzheimer’s disease is associated with loss of certain brain biochemicals (neurotransmitters) that help brain cells communicate with each other. Although there is no complete cure for Alzheimer’s disease, treatments that help replace the lost neurotransmitters have been shown to improve symptoms and slow cognitive decline. Research is currently underway to improve treatment and find cures. Orasi is contributing to that research by developing improved tools for identifying and tracking Alzheimer’s disease.

Today, Alzheimer's disease affects 5.2 million Americans and an estimated additional 5 million Americans with early stage Alzheimer's. 450,000 new cases are reported annually, and primary care physicians fail to diagnose an estimated 50% of new cases. The cost of caring for people with Alzheimer's in the United States is estimated to be $100 billion per year.

For more information on Alzheimer’s disease please visit:
http://www.nia.nih.gov/Alzheimers/AlzheimersInformation/GeneralInfo/