Early diagnosis of dementia: new test could change lives

Early diagnosis of dementia: new test could change lives

Alzheimer's disease is a topic that concerns many people, especially with increasing understanding of its neurodegenerative nature. In recent years, the Alzheimer Research Initiative (AIF) has taken on the task of debunking common myths about this complex disease. This education is crucial as misunderstandings can often lead to confusion and incorrect assumptions.

One of the most common misconceptions is that Alzheimer's and dementia are the same. It is important to understand that dementia is an umbrella term for a variety of symptoms associated with mental decline, with Alzheimer's being the most common form. In fact, around 60 percent of dementia cases are due to Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's disease is manifested not only by memory loss, but also by difficulties with spatial understanding and orientation, which distinguishes it from other types of dementia such as vascular dementia or Lewy body dementia.

The misunderstandings about Alzheimer's

Another common myth is the idea that Alzheimer's is just a side effect of old age. This is misleading. Although age-related forgetfulness is normal, Alzheimer's is a serious disease. Research shows that in Alzheimer's patients, specific proteins such as amyloid-beta and tau attack the brain and form deposits that impair functionality. Such deposits can be detected using imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging, which is important in the diagnosis.

Furthermore, many people believe that only older people get Alzheimer's. Even though age is the biggest risk factor, not all those affected are seniors. Early dementia is a reality affecting people under 65 years of age. In certain cases, this form of Alzheimer's can occur in up to 100 people in 100,000 between the ages of 45 and 65. The numbers should be compared with the older age group, in which around 5,000 people suffer from Alzheimer's.

Another myth is that children of Alzheimer's patients will also get the disease. However, the reality is different: most Alzheimer's cases are not genetic. While certain genetic factors may increase risk, this does not guarantee that offspring will also be affected. Statistics show that age continues to be the key risk factor.

In addition, it is often assumed that Alzheimer's is incurable and therefore there are no treatment options. Although there is currently no cure, there are various therapies that can slow the progression of the disease. Medication, memory training and physical activity have been shown to be effective in helping sufferers maintain their independence.

Deepen understanding of the disease

A particularly sensitive myth is the belief that Alzheimer's patients die from respiratory failure. Many people believe that forgetfulness when breathing is fatal. The truth is that in the advanced stages of the disease, patients have severe physical deterioration and require intensive care. During this phase they are particularly susceptible to infection, which is often found to be the cause of death. According to the AIF, many of those affected die from respiratory diseases, which are promoted by general physical deterioration.

Although Alzheimer's is perceived as an inevitable fate, researchers have identified ways to reduce the risk of the disease. A healthy lifestyle can help, including by lowering LDL cholesterol levels, promoting education, reducing obesity and managing stress. These preventative measures can contribute significantly to reducing the risk and avoiding early illnesses.

Scientists also recommend avoiding social isolation and leading an active lifestyle to preserve cognitive abilities for as long as possible. These measures can not only increase personal well-being, but also reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's.