Preface   For decades, researchers have been searching for a way to cure Alzheimer's disease, by far the most common cause of age-related mental decline. Despite considerable progress, no miracle remedy has yet been discovered.   But we don't need to sit and wait for a remarkable new drug or vaccine to come along before we start protecting our brains from this devastating disease. The Alzheimer's Prevention Program offers strategies to help delay symptoms from emerging. The scientific evidence points to prevention as today's most effective way to defend against Alzheimer's. If we can stave off the onset of dementia long enough for people never to experience symptoms in their lifetime--that in itself could be considered a cure.   Genetics accounts for only part of the risk for Alzheimer's disease, and we now know that lifestyle choices have a tremendous impact. A lifestyle that promotes brain health not only strengthens neurons and postpones mental decline, it also improves memory ability and brain efficiency right away.

No matter where you are in your health profile--even if you exercise every day and eat all the right foods to keep your body and brain healthy--this program will still help you feel better and delay Alzheimer's disease longer. Whether you're a student, thirty-something, baby boomer, or senior, you will benefit quickly from practicing Alzheimer's prevention strategies--and you'll have fun doing it. It's never too early or too late to start protecting your brain. The Alzheimer's Prevention Program will show you how to get your brain healthy and do all you can to keep it that way for the rest of your life.   GARY SMALL, M.D., AND GIGI VORGAN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, JANUARY 2012  .