Alzheimer's disease begins in the brain years before the first symptoms
Neurology Specialist Prof. Dr. Neşe Tuncer stated that the Alzheimer's process begins 20 years before symptoms and explained risk factors and precautions.
Experts emphasize that Alzheimer's disease can begin with silent changes in the brain approximately 20 years before the first clinical symptoms appear. Decisions made during middle age are of great importance against this disorder, which affects thousands of people in Turkey.
Frequency of the Disease
While approximately 700,000 people in our country struggle with Alzheimer's disease, this number is expected to increase 2.5 times by 2050.
With the prolongation of life expectancy, the social and individual impacts of neurological disorders are steadily increasing.
The Process Starting in Middle Age
Brain changes that begin approximately 20 years before symptoms appear directly affect health in old age.
For example, memory problems experienced in the 70s indicate that the foundations of the process were laid in the 50s.
Habits That Create Risks
Lack of regular exercise, uncontrolled blood pressure, high cholesterol, and untreated hearing loss increase the risk.
Obesity, smoking, alcohol use, social isolation, and unhealthy diet are also among the factors that lay the groundwork for Alzheimer's.
Ten Effective Preventive Measures
Doing at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week and following a Mediterranean-style diet support cerebrovascular health.
Quality sleep, keeping the brain active, maintaining social bonds, and avoiding head trauma are among the protective approaches.
Developments in Diagnosis and Treatment
The US Food and Drug Administration, FDA, approved the first blood test that aids in diagnosing Alzheimer's by detecting proteins in the blood.
Such innovations are considered important developments that offer hope in early diagnosis processes.