Dr. Anuradha H K, Lead Consultant – Neurology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore

 “Alzheimer’s disease has emerged as one of India’s most significant health issues at the moment. While prevalent amongst the elderly, in younger populations, chronic stress, anxiety, and depression are increasingly identified as significant risk factors for an early onset of Alzheimer’s. Long-standing mental health problems have been found to increase the vulnerability of such a disease further through the constant elevation of the stress hormones, thus putting importance on improving one’s brain health. We are seeing a major trend of Alzheimer’s in people with an unhealthy lifestyle, improper sleep habits and sedentary lifestyle leading to cognitive decline, and unhealthy diets promote the development of Alzheimer’s. Regular exercise, a healthy diet made up of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain good health. To lower the risk, it is equally crucial to sleep well and control excessive blood pressure, body weight, and blood sugar levels and to abstain from drinking and smoking. Mindful practices that reduce stress also help prevent the disease from worsening. Early detection and adoption can really make a great difference in vastly improving the quality of life of more and more people at risk.”