Alzheimer's steadily on the rise in hyderabad city

Banjara Hills: Nearly 50% of the people above the age of 65 are diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease every year. There is a rise in its incidence in the city with 5 out of 10 people being afflicted with Alzheimer's, say doctors.

Speaking to The Hans India, Dr Changala Praveen, Consultant Neurologist, Aware Gleneagles Global Hospital, LB Nagar, said, "For the past 5 years, there has been a tremendous increase in Alzheimer's cases in the city. Every 15 days we witness 1 or 2 new cases of Alzheimer's. The main reason is sedentary lifestyle."

Medical conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart problems, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity are all known to increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. Risk can be reduced by keeping these under control.

Neuropsychological testing and imaging of brain are required to diagnose the disease. One should meet a neurologist promptly if there is any suspicion and following their advice would help lead a reasonably prolonged independent life span, adds Dr Praveen.

"Depression is also a probable risk factor for dementia and thus treating this condition early is important. As there is no cure for Alzheimer's and for that reason the family support plays an important role," said Dr Sadiya, Psychologist and Counsellor at Hyderabad Deccan Chapter of Alzheimer's and Related Disorder Society of India (ARDSI), Banjara Hills.