Tucson Lifestyle magazine proudly features Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik in its latest issue as "The Face of Alzheimer’s Treatment." This recognition celebrates Dr. de Leonni's exceptional contributions to the field of neurology, her service to the Tucson-area community, and her dedication to advancing research and treatment options for neurological disorders.
Dr. de Leonni, a Tucson-based neurologist with an extensive research background, has made significant strides in understanding and treating neurological conditions. In the feature article, she provides a brief overview of Alzheimer’s treatment options, offering hope and guidance to patients and their families.
“I am honored to be featured by Tucson Lifestyle magazine,” said Dr. de Leonni. “My goal is to continue to push the boundaries of neurological research and provide the best possible care for my patients. Alzheimer's disease is a challenging condition, but with continued research and advancements in treatment, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those affected.”
Alzheimer’s affects approximately 6 percent of all people age 65 and older and is the most common cause of dementia. The exact cause of Alzheimer's is elusive. According to current scientific opinions, it is caused by an abnormal build-up of proteins in and around brain cells. As the FDA approves new drugs aimed at mitigating the effects of this debilitating disease, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik emphasizes a comprehensive approach that also includes lifestyle modifications.
The approval of new Alzheimer's drugs marks a significant milestone in the fight against this neurodegenerative disease. These medications, such as lecanemab and aducanumab (discontinued by the manufacturer in 2024) target the amyloid plaques in the brain that are characteristic of Alzheimer's. An encouraging clinical trial tested a new drug, LM11A-31, to possibly increase the brain’s resilience to Alzheimer-driven changes. See https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-05-results-human-clinical-trial-early.html
While drugs like these offer hope by potentially slowing the progression of the disease, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik cautions that they are not a cure. "These treatments are a step in the right direction, but we must manage expectations. They can slow down the progression, but they do not reverse the damage already done," she states.
Dr. de Leonni Stanonik advocates for a holistic approach to managing Alzheimer's, combining pharmacological treatments with lifestyle interventions. "There's growing evidence that lifestyle changes can significantly impact the course of Alzheimer's," she notes. Research has shown that factors such as diet, physical activity, cognitive engagement, and social interaction can play a crucial role in brain health.”
See recent reports on CNN, “Signs of Alzheimer’s were everywhere. Then his brain improved,” https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/18/health/alzheimers-blood-brain-improvement-wellness/index.html & “An Alzheimer’s patient says intensive lifestyle changes reversed her condition,” https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/16/health/video/gupta-alzheimers-reversed-patient-digvid
One of the most compelling areas of lifestyle intervention is diet. Dr. de Leonni Stanonik points to the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, as particularly beneficial. Studies suggest that this diet can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's and improve cognitive function. "Nutrition is fundamental. What we eat can affect our brain health profoundly. My personal advice is to avoid ultra-processed foods," she notes.
Physical exercise is another critical component. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, which in turn supports brain function. Exercise can also promote the growth of new brain cells and improve mood, both of which are important for those with Alzheimer's. "Even moderate exercise, like walking or swimming, can make a difference," Dr. de Leonni Stanonik advises.
Cognitive engagement is also essential. Activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, can help maintain cognitive function. "The brain thrives on being challenged. Keeping it active can delay the onset of symptoms," she explains.
Social interaction plays a vital role in mental health as well. Isolation can exacerbate Alzheimer's symptoms, while staying socially active can provide emotional support and stimulate cognitive function. "Human connection is powerful. Social activities can help keep the mind sharp and improve the quality of life for those with Alzheimer's," Dr. de Leonni Stanonik says.
In her commentary, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik underscores the importance of personalized care. "Alzheimer's affects each person differently, and treatment plans should be tailored to the individual's needs. A combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and supportive care is often the most effective approach."
She also highlights the need for continued research. "While we have made significant strides, we are still learning about Alzheimer's. Ongoing research is crucial to developing more effective treatments and, hopefully, a cure," she adds.
Finally, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik cautions that “in all medical matters, one should not act based solely on information found on the internet, but instead review the issues with the medical doctor who has the patient’s medical history and has personally examined the patient.”
About Tucson Lifestyle Magazine
Tucson Lifestyle is a free-access, award-winning city magazine produced by Conley Media, LLC for more than 40 years. The mission of Tucson Lifestyle is to celebrate the people, events, homes, gardens, landscapes, activities, food, businesses, and cultural and nonprofit organizations that make living in Southern Arizona unique and fulfilling. With lush photography, compelling stories, informative listings and departments, plus targeted special-interest sections, the magazine presents a monthly exploration of subjects that are important to Arizonans.
Website: https://www.tucsonlifestyle.com
About Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
Mateja de Leonni Stanonik, MD, MA, PhD (former Surgeon General of the Republic of Slovenia) is the head of a multidisciplinary Neurology and Psychiatry Clinic at the Vita Medica Institute in Tucson, Arizona. Her current practice focuses on stroke/vascular neurology, memory issues, and women's issues with neurological disorders.
Mateja de Leonni Stanonik, BA, BSc, MA, MD, PhD, grew up in Slovenia (formerly Yugoslavia). She completed her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Psychology (BSc.), as well as in German and Political Science (B.A.). She went on to obtain her Master’s degree in Cognitive Psychology/Neurolinguistics and Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in Neuroscience. In 2007, she completed her M.D. degree at the Saba University School of Medicine, followed by a medical residency in Neurology at George Washington University.
Dr. de Leonni Stanonik is passionate about preserving brain health well into the golden years of life which allows patients to maintain quality of life as much as possible. Thus, she routinely uses treatments to limit cognitive decline.
Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
VitaMedica Institute
2850 E Skyline Dr., Suite 130
Tucson, Arizona 85718
Tel: (520) 638-5757
Fax: (520) 447-5701
Website: https://vmi.global/
Here is a link to the July 2024 issue of Tucson Lifestyle Magazine.
Mateja de Leonni Stanonik, MD, MA, PhD (former Surgeon General of the Republic of Slovenia) is the head of a multidisciplinary Neurology and Psychiatry Clinic, the Vita Medica Institute, in Tucson, Arizona. The focus of her current practice is stroke/vascular neurology, memory issues as well as women's issues within neurological disorders.
Mateja de Leonni Stanonik, BA, BSc, MA, MD, PhD, grew up in Slovenia (formerly Yugoslavia). She completed her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Psychology (BSc.), as well as in German and Political Science (B.A.). She went on to obtain her Master’s degree in Cognitive Psychology/Neurolinguistics and Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in Neuroscience. In 2007, she completed her M.D. degree at the Saba University School of Medicine, followed by a medical residency in Neurology at George Washington University.
Dr. de Leonni Stanonik is passionate about preserving brain health well into the golden years of life which allows patients to maintain quality of life as much as possible. Thus, she routinely uses treatments to limit cognitive decline.
Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
VitaMedica Institute
2850 E Skyline Dr., Suite 130
Tucson, Arizona 85718
Tel: (520) 638-5757
Fax: (520) 447-5701
Website: https://vmi.global/
Wikipedia: "Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and progressively worsens,[2] and is the cause of 60–70% of cases of dementia.[2][14] The most common early symptom is difficulty in remembering recent events.[1] As the disease advances, symptoms can include problems with language, disorientation (including easily getting lost), mood swings, loss of motivation, self-neglect, and behavioral issues.[2] As a person's condition declines, they often withdraw from family and society.[15] Gradually, bodily functions are lost, ultimately leading to death. Although the speed of progression can vary, the average life expectancy following diagnosis is three to twelve years.[16][12]
The cause of Alzheimer's disease is poorly understood.[15] There are many environmental and genetic risk factors associated with its development. The strongest genetic risk factor is from an allele of apolipoprotein E.[17][18] Other risk factors include a history of head injury, clinical depression, and high blood pressure.[1] The progress of the protein misfolding disease is largely associated with amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and loss of neuronal connections in the brain.[19] A probable diagnosis is based on the history of the illness and cognitive testing, with medical imaging and blood tests to rule out other possible causes.[8][20] Initial symptoms are often mistaken for normal brain aging.[15] Examination of brain tissue is needed for a definite diagnosis, but this can only take place after death.[21][22]
No treatments can stop or reverse its progression, though some may temporarily improve symptoms.[2] A healthy diet, physical activity, and social engagement are generally beneficial in ageing, and may help in reducing the risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's.[19] Affected people become increasingly reliant on others for assistance, often placing a burden on caregivers.[23] The pressures can include social, psychological, physical, and economic elements.[23] Exercise programs may be beneficial with respect to activities of daily living and can potentially improve outcomes.[24] Behavioral problems or psychosis due to dementia are sometimes treated with antipsychotics, but this has an increased risk of early death.[25][26]
As of 2020, there were approximately 50 million people worldwide with Alzheimer's disease.[13] It most often begins in people over 65 years of age, although up to 10% of cases are early-onset impacting those in their 30s to mid-60s.[27][4] It affects about 6% of people 65 years and older,[15] and women more often than men.[28] The disease is named after German psychiatrist and pathologist Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in 1906.[29] Alzheimer's financial burden on society is large, with an estimated global annual cost of US$1 trillion.[13] It is ranked as the seventh leading cause of death worldwide.[30]
The course of Alzheimer's is generally described in three stages, with a progressive pattern of cognitive and functional impairment.[31][27] The three stages are described as early or mild, middle or moderate, and late or severe.[31] The disease is known to target the hippocampus which is associated with memory, and this is responsible for the first symptoms of memory impairment. As the disease progresses so does the degree of memory impairment.[19]"
Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
The new clinic, based in the city of Trieste, Italy, will offer innovative neurological treatments, for example for Alzheimer’s, based on Dr. de Leonni Stanonik’s international scientific experience.
Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik, a distinguished neurologist renowned for her contributions to the field of neuroscience and telemedicine, is set to embark on her newest venture: the establishment of an innovative neurology clinic in Italy. Drawing upon her extensive experience as a medical practitioner and researcher, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik aims to revolutionize Alzheimer's treatment by offering state-of-the-art therapies and personalized care to patients in Europe and beyond.
With a career spanning almost two decades, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik has earned international acclaim for her expertise in neurology and her commitment to advancing the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders. As a long-time practitioner in Tucson, Arizona, she has not only served her local community with distinction but has also maintained strong professional ties with Europe, notably as a board member of SiNAPSA, the Slovenian Neuroscience Association.
Commenting on her decision to establish the Alzheimer's clinic in Italy, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik remarked, "Alzheimer's disease represents one of the most pressing healthcare challenges of our time, affecting millions of individuals and their families worldwide. With advancements in medical science and technology, we have the opportunity to redefine the standard of care for Alzheimer's patients and provide hope where it is desperately needed."
The new clinic, which will be located in Trieste, Italy, will offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to the unique needs of Alzheimer's patients. From cutting-edge diagnostics to innovative treatment modalities, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik and her team are committed to delivering holistic, patient-centered care that addresses both the physical and emotional dimensions of the disease.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik remains actively involved in research, with a focus on exploring novel therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative conditions. By integrating the latest scientific findings into clinical practice, she aims to continuously improve patient outcomes and advance the field of neuroscience.
The establishment of the Alzheimer's clinic in Italy represents a significant milestone in Dr. de Leonni Stanonik's distinguished career, reflecting her unwavering dedication to improving the lives of individuals affected by neurological disorders. Through her pioneering efforts, she continues to shape the future of healthcare and inspire hope for patients and families around the world.
About Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
Dr. de Leonni Stanonik, MD, MA, PhD (former Surgeon General of the Republic of Slovenia) is an esteemed neurologist with a passion for advancing the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders. With a career spanning decades, she has earned international recognition for her expertise and dedication to patient care. As a board member of SiNAPSA, the Slovenian Neuroscience Association, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik remains actively engaged in the global neuroscience community. Her newest endeavor involves the establishment of an innovative Alzheimer's clinic in Italy, where she aims to redefine the standard of care for patients with neurodegenerative conditions.
At her clinic in Tucson, Arizona, Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik focuses on providing personalized care to her patients, Dr. de Leonni Stanonik is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by neurological disorders. She is committed to ongoing education and training to ensure that her patients receive the most advanced treatments available. The focus of her current practice is stroke/vascular neurology, memory issues as well as women's issues within neurological disorders.
She grew up in Slovenia (formerly Yugoslavia) and completed her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Psychology (BSc.), as well as in German and Political Science (B.A.). She went on to obtain her Master’s degree in Cognitive Psychology/Neurolinguistics and Doctoral (Ph.D.) degree in Neuroscience. In 2007, she completed her M.D. degree at the Saba University School of Medicine, followed by a medical residency in Neurology at George Washington University.
Dr. Mateja de Leonni Stanonik
VitaMedica Institute
2850 E Skyline Dr., Suite 130
Tucson, Arizona 85718
Tel: (520) 638-5757
Fax: (520) 447-5701
Website: https://vmi.global/
Please send us a message if you have a question.
Tucson, Arizona, United States
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