The group, whose goal is to eliminate the disease through the advancement of research, found that only 45% of patients with Alzheimer’s disease reported being told by their doctor that they had the disease – compared to 90% for most common cancers. The earlier patients are aware they have the disease, the more prepared they can be in deciding how to handle their future.

The Alzheimer’s Association is requesting an additional $300 million from the federal government this upcoming year to invest in research, as it is the key to finding a cure.