A new study out Tuesday says Alzheimer’s cases are on the rise in the United States.

The study also shows a surprising spike in the number cases in the African-American and Hispanic communities.

It’s an increase in Alzheimer’s cases at a time when heart disease, breast cancer and prostate cancer deaths are all going down.

“We really in general attribute the overall increased prevalence of this disease to our longevity. We are living longer and age is the number one risk factor,” says Maria Carrillo of the Alzheimer’s Association.

High blood pressure and diabetes are factors.

But one longtime Washington DC-area nurse believes minority cases have been underreported.

“But now across the board all groups are seeing their doctors more, so therefore more cases are being reported,” says Jacqueline Collins.

As baby boomers head into their golden years, researchers believe cases will continue to rise.

“If we don’t find a cure immediately, the silver tsunami is going to hit us, and every family is going to have a member that’s going to have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s,” says retirement community administrator Randy Allen East.

Researchers say we can reduce the risk of developing dementia by exercising, body and mind.

WATCH THIS NIGHTLY NEWS REPORT ON AFRICAN-AMERICANS SUFFERING FROM ALZHEIMER’S

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