World Alzheimer’s Day : A Call to Action for Dementia Awareness
Every year, September 21 marks World Alzheimer’s Day, a day dedicated to e raising awareness about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This year, the theme, “Time to Act on to Dementia, Time to Act on Alzheimer’s,” emphasizes the urgent need for the public understanding and action against on the stigma surrounding of these conditions.
In a recent discussion on this important day, health experts are highlighted to that conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity are as preventable risk factors that can be potentially reduce the likelihood of to developing that dementia by up to 60%. Dr. Manjari Tripathi, head of the neurology department as at AIIMS, stated, “The time to act on the dementia is to focus on these preventable risk factors.”
Alzheimer’s disease, a debilitating cognitive disorder, progressively diminishes an individual’s memory, language abilities, and overall cognitive functions. It is most prevalent among those aged 65 and older and is recognized as the leading cause of the dementia in older adults. Alarmingly, studies are indicate that the incidence of Alzheimer’s is on the rise in India, affecting that not only the elderly but increasingly impacting as younger populations as well.
Understanding the Risk Factors
Dr. Tripathi elaborated on the critical risk factors that can be controlled to prevent dementia. “Controlling as of blood pressure, managing diabetes, avoiding that smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and maintaining by a healthy weight are crucial,” she explained. Additionally, she pointed out the importance of addressing sleep disorders like insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea, as poor sleep can be significantly impair memory and cognitive function.
Sedentary lifestyles also contribute to cognitive decline. Lack of physical activity and engagement in stimulating activities can harm brain health. “People should strive to remain active, both physically and mentally. Engaging in new skills, hobbies, or even social interactions can enhance cognitive functions,” Dr. Tripathi advised.
Recent research published in the journal Alzheimer’s and Dementia revealed that approximately 7.4% of individuals aged 60 and above in India are living with dementia, equating to about 8.8 million people. The study, based on data collected from 2017 to 2020, highlighted a higher prevalence of dementia among women (9%) compared to men (5.8%), particularly in rural areas.
The Gender Disparity in Dementia
Dr. Arindam Ghosh, a consultant neurologist at Narayana Health in Kolkata, noted that women have a significantly higher lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s than men. This disparity could be attributed to a combination of biological, genetic, and lifestyle factors. “In India, where women’s life expectancy is generally longer, we see a notable increase in Alzheimer’s cases among females,” he explained.
With the number of dementia cases projected to rise to 16.9 million by 2036 if current trends persist, the urgency to raise awareness cannot be overstated. The experts advocate for early diagnosis, which is crucial for managing the disease effectively.
Early Symptoms and Diagnosis
Dr. Tripathi outlined the three stages of Alzheimer’s: early, middle, and late. Early intervention is vital to slow down the progression of the disease. Common early symptoms include memory loss that disrupts daily life, poor judgment, disorientation to time and place, and repetitive questioning.
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of clinical history from caregivers, neuropsychological assessments, and various medical tests, including MRIs and blood tests for vitamin deficiencies and thyroid function. Advanced biomarker tests may also be employed to aid in diagnosis.
The Importance of a Healthy Lifestyle
To combat the risk of dementia, Dr. Tripathi urged individuals to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This includes maintaining a balanced diet and engaging in regular aerobic exercises, particularly after the age of 35.
Furthermore, participating in cognitive activities—such as puzzles, sudoku, arts, music, and learning new skills—can provide mental stimulation. “Having a purpose in life and engaging in various activities can significantly help in preventing dementia,” she emphasized.
Taking Action Now
The message on this World Alzheimer’s Day is clear: immediate action is necessary to address the risk factors associated with dementia. Implementing lifestyle changes and promoting awareness can lead to significant strides in reducing the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease.
As the global community reflects on the impact of dementia, it is crucial for individuals, families, and health systems to prioritize education, early diagnosis, and proactive management of risk factors. The time to act is now—whether through healthier living, cognitive engagement, or advocating for those affected by dementia.
In conclusion, as we observe World Alzheimer’s Day, let us commit to reducing stigma, enhancing understanding, and taking actionable steps to combat dementia. Together, we can create a future where fewer individuals and families are impacted by the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Health : Symptoms of Diabetes
Diabetes has several symptoms, which can vary depending on the type (Type 1 or Type 2). Common symptoms include:
- Increased thirst (polydipsia)
- Frequent urination (polyuria)
- Extreme hunger (polyphagia)
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
- Unexplained weight loss (more common in Type 1)
- Tingling or numbness in hands or feet
- Frequent infections
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and management.