Brain health crucial in UAE’s approach to healthy ageing

Alzheimer’s not inevitable with age; early conversations and scientific advances key

In the UAE, prioritising brain health is becoming essential in discussions about healthy ageing, as highlighted by experts Prof. Suhail Al Rukn and Shady Ibrahim. They stress the importance of integrating brain health into everyday health conversations, especially given the region’s strong family ties and respect for older generations.

Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition, is not a normal part of ageing. It involves changes in the brain, such as beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles, and can progress from mild cognitive impairment to dementia. Globally, 55 million people live with dementia, with 32 million affected by Alzheimer’s. The disease impacts not only memory but also language, reasoning, and daily independence, affecting families who often provide care at home.

Despite its impact, cognitive decline is often difficult to discuss due to misconceptions and stigma. The 2019 World Alzheimer Report found that many healthcare practitioners mistakenly view dementia as a normal part of ageing. This misconception can prevent people from seeking help or discussing symptoms.

Scientific progress offers hope, with advances in diagnostics and treatments changing the conversation around Alzheimer’s. However, these innovations require coordinated healthcare systems to ensure patients benefit. In the UAE, integrating brain health into public health priorities like hypertension and diabetes could enhance prevention efforts.

Encouraging lifelong brain health awareness is vital. The 2024 Lancet Commission identified modifiable risk factors for dementia, such as hypertension and smoking, which are already public health priorities in the UAE. A national brain health policy and early detection programmes could further support this initiative.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/brain-health-must-be-part-of-every-conversation-about-healthy-ageing-1.500725235