Newswise — ATLANTA (OCTOBER 1, 2014)— In an effort to drive awareness of a common but little known dementia, Lewy body dementia (LBD) families are hosting events nationwide to help raise support for those affected by the disease. Greater public awareness is desperately needed, as LBD is the most misdiagnosed form of dementia. LBD already affects approximately 1.4 million Americans, a number expected to grow with our aging population, and is the second most common cause of progressive dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. With symptoms resembling both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, getting an LBD diagnosis takes an average of 18 months and visits to three different doctors.
The timing of these events aligns with the October National Lewy Body Dementia Awareness Month, driven by the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA). Events are being organized across the country to help increase awareness. Educating the public about LBD symptoms to report to the doctor is a vital step in decreasing the time it takes to receive a diagnosis. LBDA encourages people and organizations to host or attend local events to learn more about the disease, how it impacts those diagnosed, their caregivers and families. Participants will better be able to answer the question, “Lewy Who?” and help spread awareness of this devastating disease.
Proceeds raised will be donated to LBDA, the only organization in the United States that provides comprehensive education and support for the 1.4 million people and the families affected by LBD.
“Hosting or attending Awareness Movement events across the country during the month of October will help not only to spread the word about LBD but also to increase the base of support for LBD families,” says Michael Koehler, president of Lewy Body Dementia Association. “It takes a united front to make an impact and to provide vital information and outreach to those affected by this condition.”
To learn how you can help spread awareness, or find an event near you, visit lbda.org.
About Lewy Body Dementia Association
The Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit health organization dedicated to raising awareness of Lewy body dementia (LBD), promoting scientific advances, and supporting people with LBD, their families and caregivers. LBD, a complex disease that can present with a range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms, is a “family disease.” It dramatically affects not only the person diagnosed but also the primary caregiver. LBDA supports all those affected by Lewy body dementia through outreach, education and research. To learn more about LBD and LBDA, please visit www.lbda.org/lewywho.
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