More and more residents of Anguilla are being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common causes of dementia, and takes a heavy toll on the individual affected as well as family members and friends. Almost everyone in Anguilla knows someone who is affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia seen in Anguilla. Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. It can affect memory, thinking skills and other mental abilities. The exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not yet fully understood, although a number of things are thought to increase your risk of developing the condition.
Experts agree that in the vast majority of cases, Alzheimer’s, like other common chronic conditions, probably develops as a result of complex interactions among multiple factors including age, genetics, environment, lifestyle and coexisting medical conditions. Although some risk factors — such as age or genes — cannot be changed, other risk factors — such as high blood pressure and lack of exercise — usually can be changed to help reduce risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Can Alzheimer’s disease be prevented?
This is a question that continues to intrigue researchers and fuel new investigations throughout the world. There are no clear-cut answers yet — partially due to the need for more large-scale studies in diverse populations.
As the exact cause of Alzheimer’s disease is not clear, there is no known way to prevent the condition.
There are things you can do that may reduce your risk or delay the onset of dementia. They include the following:
• stop smoking and cutting down on alcohol
• eating a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight
• staying physically fit and mentally active
These measures have other health benefits such as lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease and improving your overall mental health.
There is some evidence to suggest that rates of dementia are lower in people who remain mentally and socially active throughout their lives.
It may be possible to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and other types of dementia, by engaging in some of the following:
• reading
• learning foreign languages
• playing musical instruments
• volunteering in your local community
• taking part in group sports
• trying new activities or hobbies
• maintaining an active social life
Conclusion
At this time there is no proven Alzheimer’s prevention strategies, but there is strong evidence that several factors associated with leading a healthy lifestyle may play a role in reducing your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. More research is needed before any of these factors can be considered a proven strategy to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Ask Your Dr is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor with over thirty-five years in clinical practice. Dr Brett Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 497 5928).
