2023-09-27 16:03:00
Switzerland Braces for Doubling of Dementia Cases: Preventative Measures Key
Around 150,000 people currently live with dementia in Switzerland, and this number is expected to double in the coming years. The causes of this increase are multifaceted, but researchers believe that preventive measures could minimize the risk of mental decline. As the global population continues to grow and people live longer, the number of dementia patients worldwide is projected to nearly triple by 2050, according to a study published in the journal “The Lancet Public Health” in 2022. For Switzerland, experts anticipate more than a doubling of cases.
A significant report by the Lancet Commission in 2020 identified twelve modifiable risk factors that contribute to approximately 40 percent of dementia cases worldwide. These factors can be influenced by preventive measures, meaning that individuals have the power to reduce or delay the onset of dementia. Some of the modifiable risk factors include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, lack of exercise, smoking, and lack of social contacts. Additionally, factors like alcohol consumption and air pollution have recently been identified as new risk factors.
Dementia is not a disease itself, but rather an impairment of mental performance that affects everyday life. It can result from various illnesses, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common cause. While dementia is often associated with older people, younger individuals can also be affected, and triggers can include multiple sclerosis, meningitis, or traumatic brain injury.
Taking these factors into account from a young age is crucial. The brain can also be actively trained to maintain cognitive functions. Social interactions play a central role in brain health, with the head of the Memory Clinic Basel, Marc Sollberger, emphasizing the importance of connecting with others and expressing oneself. Additionally, activities such as reading, writing, and engaging in creative pursuits can promote cerebral circulation.
While there is currently no cure for dementia, approved drugs can help improve communication between brain cells and delay the decline in mental performance. However, a potential breakthrough in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease has been identified by Swissmedic. The new approach aims to address the cause of Alzheimer’s dementia directly by targeting the proteins involved. By dissolving these protein deposits, the breakdown of cells is delayed, resulting in slower mental decline. This new medication shows more significant effects than existing drugs, although there are concerns about potential side effects such as bleeding and brain swelling.
The approval of this new drug may pose challenges, particularly due to its high cost and potential side effects. While it represents a significant milestone in research, policymakers will need to carefully consider the balance between the benefits of the medication and the financial strain on healthcare systems.
Despite the current lack of a cure, taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of dementia. By acting today, individuals can contribute to countering the predicted doubling of dementia cases. The growing awareness of dementia and its implications for public health policy will undoubtedly fuel discussions and actions aimed at addressing this pressing issue.]
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