Urban lifestyle, ageing population fuel Alzheimer's surge in B'luru

Bengaluru is witnessing a rise in Alzheimer's cases, reflecting a broader national trend. As life expectancy increases and lifestyles shift, dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease, is becoming more prevalent in India.

- Sowmya Raju

In Bengaluru, urbanisation, stress, and dietary changes could be exacerbating the issue. Addressing this growing concern requires raising awareness, improving access to healthcare, and supporting research into prevention and treatment.

Dr Balaji B. S., Consultant - Neurology & Epileptology at Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, describes Alzheimer's as a progressive degenerative disease that affects memory, thinking, and behaviour. It is the most common form of dementia in the elderly, resulting in shrinking intellectual capacity and problem-solving skills. "The exact cause isn't fully understood," says Dr Balaji, "but scientists believe it is linked to harmful protein buildups in the brain, particularly amyloid and tau proteins, which damage brain cells."