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PHOENIX (Nov. 1, 2018) – Arizona has the second-highest growth rate in the United States for Alzheimer’s diagnoses with cases expected to climb to 200,000 people with the disease in the state by 2025, according to the Alzheimer's Association. To support the growing number of people and their families facing this disease, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute (BAI) is proud to welcome Po-Heng Tsai, MD, the third dementia expert to join the team in recent months.

The Stead Family Memory Center at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute provides care for those experiencing memory and thinking problems through a multi-disciplinary approach. The unique care model includes internationally-renowned memory care experts, access to a comprehensive portfolio of the latest dementia related research and trials, and education and care by social workers to support the non-medical, emotional toll of the disease.

“Dementia and Alzheimer’s requires treating so much more than just the disease, you need to provide support along the entire journey for both the patient and their families,” Dr. Tsai said. “If you can help the caregivers and family, you are also helping the patient.”

Tsai, a neurologist, received his undergraduate degree in biology from Brown University and his medical degree at Tufts University. His neurology residency was completed at UCLA and is board certified in neurology with additional certifications in behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry. He has served as a co-investigator in clinical trials for patients with Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and traumatic brain injury. Tsai is excited to engage with Valley patients for the individualized approach to care they need and the opportunity to enroll them in appropriate clinical studies that may help alleviate their symptoms and progression of the disease.

“BAI’s vision aligned so well with my own philosophy,” Dr. Tsai said. “Dementia is a disease that requires a multifaceted approach and this facility delivers just that. I am looking forward to helping new patients through their journey.”

Doctors recommend early and accurate diagnosis to help patients live successfully with the disease but recognizing the signs of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia can be difficult. Memory impairment coupled with personality changes, poor judgement and problems with language is not a sign of normal aging and more likely a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. While there is currently no cure, doctors and researchers at Banner Health can provide patients access to cutting-edge clinical trials to potentially alleviate symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. If you or someone you know is struggling with memory and thinking problems, call the Stead Family Memory Center for an appointment which will include a full evaluation at (602) 839-6902, option 3, or visit our website BannerAlz.org.

Through its research and care, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute is dedicated to the goal of ending Alzheimer’s disease without losing another generation. Founded in 2006 by Banner Health, one of the country’s largest nonprofit health care systems, BAI has a three-fold focus: to conduct revolutionary studies in the detection, treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s; to set a national standard of patient and family care; and to forge scientific collaborations that bring together institutions and disciplines internationally. For more information, visit us at www.banneralz.org or on Facebook.