Alzheimer's disease is increasing as a major health risk globally. According to an estimate, more than 55 million (5.5 crore) people worldwide are suffering from this serious brain/neurological disorder, the risk of which is increasing further due to lifestyle and diet-related disturbances. Alzheimer's disease is also known to be a major factor in dementia.
Statistics show that globally, cases of Alzheimer's disease and the dementia caused by it have increased by 147.95% from 1990 to 2019. There were 2.92 million cases of this disease in 1990, which has increased to more than 7.24 million in 2019.
World Alzheimer's Day is celebrated every year on 21 September to increase awareness among people about the increasing Alzheimer's disease globally and to make efforts for its prevention. Health experts say that it is important for all people to know about this disease so that efforts can be made to prevent it in the future and keep themselves safe. Let us know all the important things related to Alzheimer's disease.
First, know what is Alzheimer's.
Alzheimer's disease, which mainly occurs after the age of 60, is a brain disorder that can interfere with your normal daily activities. In this disease, some proteins start accumulating in the brain, and with time the brain shrinks due to which the cells eventually start dying. Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia, causes loss of memory, thinking, behavior, and social skills.
Forgetting things again and again can be a sign of Alzheimer's disease. Its other symptoms should also be paid attention to.
How to identify Alzheimer's disease?
To identify Alzheimer's disease, it is important to have correct information about its symptoms. Early signs include difficulty in remembering recent events or conversations, with memory becoming more disturbed as the disease progresses. It is also important to keep paying attention to such symptoms.
Difficulty finding the right words to express thoughts.
Difficulty making plans or solving problems.
Taking longer to complete routine daily tasks.
As the disease progresses, problems like depression, apathy, or anxiety also start occurring.
Why does this disease occur?
The exact causes of Alzheimer's disease are not fully understood, but at a basic level, protein disorders in the brain are thought to be one cause. It starts disrupting the functioning of brain cells (neurons) due to which the patient starts having many types of brain-related problems.
Scientists believe that a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors may also affect the brain. Disturbances in lifestyle are also considered a reason for increasing this disease.
Alzheimer's treatment and prevention
There is no specific cure for Alzheimer's disease yet, but some medications may help temporarily manage its symptoms and protect you from the risks of dementia. Health experts say family members should keep paying special attention to the symptoms of the patient. Starting treatment for Alzheimer's as soon as possible can help control symptoms.
As far as prevention is concerned, there is no solid evidence for this, although risk factors can be reduced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. All people should follow these things right from their youth.
Exercise regularly.
Eat foods with healthy oils and low-saturated fats.
Keep taking measures to control high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.
Stay away from smoking and alcohol, these can increase your risks.
(PC: Freepik)
