PANAJI
Neurologists in Goa have warned of a steady rise in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia among the State’s ageing population, calling it a growing public health concern.
Doctors say cases of memory loss, confusion and declining cognitive ability are becoming more common in clinics.
“Dementia is definitely increasing,” said Dr Parul Dubey, Lead Neurologist at Manipal Hospital, Dona Paula. She explained that Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and is different from mild forgetfulness linked to normal ageing.
Census data shows that 11.2 per cent of Goa’s population is made up of senior citizens, higher than the national average of 8.6 per cent. With people living longer, experts warn that dementia will place greater pressure on families, caregivers and the healthcare system.
Globally, over 55 million people are living with dementia, with a new case diagnosed every three seconds. In India, an estimated 8.8 million elderly people are affected. June, observed as Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, has renewed attention on the issue. Dr Dubey said symptoms often begin in the 60s.
Early signs include forgetting recent events, misplacing items, missing appointments and difficulty following conversations. “Recent memory is usually affected first,” she said.
She added that better awareness and improved diagnosis through cognitive tests and MRI scans could lead to more cases being identified.
Risk factors for Alzheimer’s are similar to those for heart disease and stroke, including uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, alcohol use, obesity, sleep disorders and lack of physical activity.
“Managing blood pressure, controlling diabetes, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important,” Dr Dubey advised.
While there is no cure, early diagnosis can help families plan care better. New antibody-based treatments such as Donanemab and Lecanemab, recently approved in the United States, offer hope of slowing the progression of cognitive decline.
The burden of dementia also falls heavily on caregivers, who often deal with behavioural changes, sleep problems and medication management. Dr Dubey said support through familiar surroundings and mentally stimulating activities can improve quality of life.
“Every individual has a right to dignity. People with dementia gradually lose abilities, but they should never lose their dignity,” she said.
