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Health

USC United Against Alzheimer’s: Collaborating in Research and Care

USC researchers and clinicians are making groundbreaking strides in the treatment, prevention and care of Alzheimer’s.

March 24, 2026

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most enigmatic brain afflictions and among the greatest health care challenges facing the nation. It affects more than 7 million Americans — a number projected to double by 2060.

This feature series showcases how USC researchers and clinicians are on the cusp of a revolution in Alzheimer’s prevention, making groundbreaking strides in the treatment, prevention and care of Alzheimer’s. In the near future, their discoveries promise to make the devastating disease a thing of the past.

Part 1: Can we prevent Alzheimer’s disease within a decade?

An illustration of the top view of the brain highlighting its inner workings. — For the first time in the 120-year history of Alzheimer’s disease research, prevention of this devastating neurodegenerative disease is within reach. New early-detection strategies and medications — many of which are being developed at and in collaboration with USC — offer hope for disease intervention years before people begin to lose memory and cognitive function. (Illustration/Bratislav Milenkovic)

Part 2: To reduce Alzheimer’s risk, focus on overall health

Illustration of person holding a crossbody bag with various health influences circling around — USC researchers are identifying environmental and lifestyle factors that contribute to Alzheimer’s risk and resilience. (Illustration/Bratislav Milenkovic)

Part 3: How AI and advanced computing are accelerating Alzheimer’s research

Top-down illustration of a brain with a scientist performing research in the foreground — Cutting-edge technologies developed by USC researchers are changing not just the pace of Alzheimer’s disease discoveries but also the ways scientists make those discoveries. (Illustration/Bratislav Milenkovic)

Part 4: USC practitioners connect patients and their caregivers to compassionate care

Illustration of an older person sitting and a younger person standing, with the younger person pressing a play button. A swirl of music, health info, and photos emerge from the play button. — What sets Keck Medicine’s health care apart is that practitioners are dedicated to joining patients and their caregivers on their journey with the disease. (Illustration/Bratislav Milenkovic)

WATCH: A collaborative approach to solving Alzheimer’s disease

WATCH: The Future of Alzheimer’s Prevention and Treatment

WATCH: The Path to Solving Alzheimer’s Disease is Paved with Data

WATCH: The Link Between Vascular Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease

WATCH: Cracking the Code on Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders