World Brain Day: Dementia awareness and early detection
Healthy brains build healthy communities. This World Brain Day, there’s a strong focus on dementia awareness and early detection. Here’s what you need to know.
World Brain Day looks at the importance of brain health, particularly in the context of dementia awareness. Dementia affects millions of families globally, with projections indicating a significant increase to 153 million people by 2050, especially in low and middle-income countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa.
According to the World Health Organization, dementia cases in sub-Saharan Africa are expected to more than triple from 2 million to 7.6 million by 2050.
However, there's hope: up to 45% of dementia cases could be prevented by addressing known risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, poor sleep, chronic stress, hearing loss and social isolation.
"Dementia isn't just about ageing, it's about lifelong brain health," says Dr Patty Francis, President of the Neurological Association of South Africa. What individuals do in their 30s, 40s and 50s shapes their brain's future.
Early detection is crucial. Common signs of dementia include:
Memory loss disrupts daily life
Difficulty with language
Confusion about time or place
Changes in personality or mood
Withdrawal from activities
Trouble with movement or planning.
These symptoms shouldn't be dismissed as "just getting older." Even younger adults can show signs of cognitive decline. Speaking to a GP or neurologist upon noticing persistent changes is important.
Support is available. While there's no cure for Alzheimer's, treatment options can improve quality of life, especially with early diagnosis.
This World Brain Day, the message is clear; healthy brains build healthy communities. Actions today matter, from blood pressure checks to learning about brain-boosting foods and supporting loved ones with early memory loss.
Prevention begins with awareness and education.
HOW TO LISTEN TO EAST COAST RADIO
1. Listen to East Coast Radio on the FM (frequency modulation) spectrum between 94 and 95 FM on your radio.
2. Listen live to ECR by clicking here or download the ECR App (iOS/Android).
3. Listen to East Coast Radio on the DStv audio bouquet, channel 836.
4. Switch to the audio bouquet on your Openview decoder and browse to channel 606.
5. Listen to us on Amazon Alexa.
Follow us on social media:
Image courtesy of iStock
Have a similar story or something unique to share? Email us at [email protected], we would love to hear from you!