Tunisian neurologist Dr. Riadh Gouaider has warned about the various factors that can increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease, including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. He also highlighted the role of genetic characteristics common in the Arab region, particularly those related to consanguineous marriages. These factors can affect the age of onset and symptoms of the disease, increasing the risk of Alzheimer's.
Dr. Gouaider made these remarks during the announcement of the accreditation of the Alzheimer's Center at the Razi University Hospital by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a collaborating center for training and research in dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The center is located in the eastern Mediterranean region and is internationally recognized. According to Dr. Gouaider, Alzheimer's disease results from the interaction of genetic and environmental factors, including lifestyle and health conditions.
On the genetic level, Dr. Gouaider explained that there are different patterns of inheritance, including dominant and recessive mutations that appear at high rates, especially in familial and early forms of the disease. He cited preliminary results from an ongoing study conducted by the neurology department, which found a strong correlation between certain medical and behavioral factors and an increased risk of Alzheimer's. The study included 155 patients and 310 healthy individuals.
The study found that cardiovascular diseases were strongly linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's, followed by illiteracy and lack of education, psychological disorders, hearing loss, and other factors such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Dr. Gouaider emphasized that early control of these modifiable factors is crucial for building prevention strategies and managing healthcare for Alzheimer's patients.
Dr. Gouaider advised individuals between the ages of 30 and 50 to prioritize their health, manage risk factors such as diabetes and high blood pressure, and improve their diet. He noted that by the time a patient starts experiencing memory loss, the disease may have already been developing for 15 to 20 years. He also stressed the importance of continued learning and activity for retirees and older adults to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.
The doctor emphasized that comprehensive medical care for Alzheimer's patients involves prevention, early diagnosis, and the use of approved treatments to alleviate symptoms. He also highlighted the importance of social care and psychological support for patients and their families. Additionally, Dr. Gouaider suggested that non-pharmacological interventions, such as music, art, reading, and cultural activities, can help stimulate memory.
The accreditation of the Alzheimer's Center and the study's findings were monitored by Tunisian Health Minister Mustapha Farjane during his visit to the center on the occasion of World Alzheimer's Day on September 21. Dr. Gouaider's work aims to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and promote prevention and treatment strategies in Tunisia.
Key points
- Alzheimer's disease is linked to various risk factors, including heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
- Early control of modifiable risk factors is crucial for preventing Alzheimer's disease.
- Comprehensive medical care for Alzheimer's patients involves prevention, early diagnosis, and non-pharmacological interventions.
