Bertha Bullen, guest writer View Comments Cancer. Cardiovascular disease. Diabetes. Suicide. These are among the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States. They also are recognized as health priorities in Michigan thanks to dedicated and funded state departments, sections and units. Alzheimer’s is one of the only top 10 leading causes of death in the United States to not yet have that support and recognition in Michigan, despite its growing burden. As someone who has now witnessed 10 family members diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, this is a cause that couldn’t be closer to my heart. It’s also something I hope, one day, future generations never have to experience.