Over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease and by 2050, the number is projected to soar to 16 million, according to a new report released today from the Alzheimer's Association.
As the number of people increases so will costs of health care. In 2014, $214 billion will be spent on health care, long-term care and hospice. In 2050, the cost is projected to be $1.2 trillion.
Right now it is still hard to treat Alzheimer's and there is no cure. It's a disease many are affected by, more women than men. Women over 65 have a 1 in 6 chance of developing Alzheimer's and men of similar age have a 1 in 11 chance of developing the disease. And African-Americans are about twice as likely as whites to have Alzheimer's or another dementia.
NBC News' Dr. Nancy Snyderman will have more tonight on "NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams." Check your local listings.
