Every 3 seconds someone in the world is diagnosed with dementia

The Ministry of Health made a statement within the scope of World Alzheimer's Day, September 21.

It was reported that there are around 55-57 million patients with dementia in the world, and dementia is among the important problems in Türkiye.

In the written statement made by the Ministry, the following statements were made:

"Alzheimer's disease is a chronic and progressive disorder that develops due to damage to brain cells over time. As the disease progresses, brain functions are affected; individuals' ability to speak, make decisions and continue their daily lives independently may be lost over time. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia and accounts for approximately 60-70 percent of all cases. It is estimated that 55-57 million people worldwide have dementia and approximately one person develops dementia every 3 seconds. Alzheimer's disease and "Dementia is among the important problems affecting public health in our country."

It was stated that the risk factors associated with Alzheimer's disease and dementia include unchangeable factors such as family disease history and gender, and the following was stated:

"In addition to these, there are modifiable risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity and type 2 diabetes that may occur due to lifestyle; alcohol use of tobacco and tobacco products, sedentary life and being mentally passive. It is possible to prevent, delay or reduce the effects of the disease by adopting healthy lifestyle habits and reducing risk factors. Research shows that 45 percent of dementia cases can be delayed or prevented with appropriate interventions for modifiable risk factors. To protect against dementia and Alzheimer's disease; activities that will keep the mind active "Regular physical activity should be given importance in daily life, healthy and balanced eating habits should be acquired, social relations and social life should be maintained, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels should be monitored regularly."

Source: TRT Haber Sağlık RSS (Open Press / Translated Full Text)