The Alzheimer’s Association’s Iowa Chapter is marking Black History Month by raising awareness for African-Americans about their increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. “While African-Americans are more likely to develop Alzheimer‘s disease than whites, they are less likely to undergo a cognitive assessment,” said Dr. Yogesh Shah, director of Palliative Care Services with Broadlawns Medical Center. “If they do receive a diagnosis, the disease has progressed and is often late stage.” While there is no cure, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The association urges all Iowans to have a conversation with their primary care physician about memory issues and brain health, and recommends that doctors include cognitive assessments when their patients come in for annual physicals and other routine visits to identify dementia in its early stage. To learn more about identifying the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and ways to improve brain health, visit www.alz.org.