(RALEIGH) -- Groundbreaking new research that could actually prevent Alzheimer's disease is being discussed at an international conference in Vancouver. George Brandenberg founded "Us Against Alzheimer's", which includes a chapter in North Carolina.

Brandenberg said Alzheimer's is growing around the world.  "It has grown by several hundred thousand a year in the United States and globally it's now has a prevalence that's greater than HIV AIDS.  It is a disease that because of the aging in many counties is going to grow by leaps and bounds in the coming years," said Brandenberg.

Vrandenburg says new research shows that the disease can now be seen in the brain before symptoms begin to develop.  Researchers are also looking for the first time at a gene that prevents some people from getting Alzheimer's. He says it holds promise for drug developers.