There are at least 44 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, and those numbers are expected to grow to 76 million by 2030. During the inaugural Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month this June, the Alzheimer’s Association® is asking people around the world to wear purple – the color of the Alzheimer’s movement – and use their brains to fight Alzheimer’s disease.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2014 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, nearly a quarter (24%) of people agree with the mistaken belief that Alzheimer’s disease must run in their family for them to be at risk. When looking at certain ethnic groups, these numbers were even higher. A third of Latinos (33%) and almost half of Asians (45%) agreed with that incorrect statement. In actuality, everyone with a brain is at risk for Alzheimer’s, a disease that currently has no way to prevent, stop or even slow its progression.

During Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, people around the world will come together on a special day to raise awareness and funds for the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. On June 21, teams will participate in The Longest Day®, a sunrise-to-sunset event to honor those facing Alzheimer’s with strength, passion and endurance. To start or join a team, visit alz.org/thelongestday.