Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that significantly impacts memory, thinking, and behavior, disrupting daily life. Although treatments can slow its progression, there is no cure yet. (Check out some warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease you should never ignore.)
According to the South Texas Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, Texas ranks fourth in the nation for Alzheimer’s disease cases and second for deaths due to the disease. They highlight that 13 Texas counties are among the top 25 in the U.S. for Alzheimer’s prevalence. In the Rio Grande Valley, counties like Starr (15.5%), Hidalgo (14.8%), Willacy (14.8%), and Cameron (14.6%) have particularly high rates among those aged 65 and older, as per the Alzheimer’s Association.
Medicare data also underlines the issue, showing Starr County has the second-highest Alzheimer’s prevalence nationally (via the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation). One in five adults on Medicare in Starr County has Alzheimer’s – twice the national rate. Gladys Maestre, a neuroepidemiologist at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley, explained to The Atlantic, “Everybody has somebody in their family.”
But what factors contribute to the high incidence of this neurological disorder in the area?
Why Starr County, Texas, might be more prone to Alzheimer’s disease
The exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease remain unclear. It is believed to result from brain cell damage by protein deposits known as plaques and tangles. Genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors are thought to contribute.
In an interview with The Daily Mail, Maestre suggested that poverty might be a significant factor in Starr County’s Alzheimer’s cases. Residents in poorer neighborhoods often face worse air quality, rely more on cars than walking, experience higher stress, and have fewer social interactions. Additionally, Maestre pointed out contaminants in the water supply, like arsenic and cadmium, that can impact brain health. The extreme heat of Texas could also add stress to the body. She also noted the largely Hispanic population, which is more vulnerable to dementia for unexplained reasons.
How to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 45% of Alzheimer’s cases could be prevented or delayed. A major step in reducing your risk is adopting a healthy lifestyle. Stay active, limit or avoid alcohol and smoking. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, adhere to your doctor’s management plan. Also, focus on preventing or treating hearing loss.
Cognitive Vitality advises that even individuals with a genetic predisposition for Alzheimer’s, such as carrying the APOE4 variant, can take significant steps to lower their risk or delay the onset of the disease. In addition to the previously mentioned recommendations, lifestyle changes like adopting a Mediterranean or low-glycemic diet, managing cholesterol, maintaining social and mental engagement, and getting 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night can promote brain health.
