Not just forgetfulness: dementia, a silent epidemic

Free Malaysia Today

a day ago

Globally, dementia affects more than 55 million people, with the WHO predicting this number will reach 78 million by 2030. (Freepik pic)
KUALA LUMPUR : Dementia often begins subtly – a forgotten name, a repeated story, a misplaced item.
But contrary to widespread belief, this condition is not just about old-age forgetfulness – in Malaysia, it is a silent epidemic, driven by an ageing population and widespread chronic illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure.
With nearly 16% of the population being age 60 and above, studies suggest that over 200,000 Malaysians are living with dementia. Soberingly, this figure is likely underestimated because of low awareness and limited screening.
Globally, dementia affects more than 55 million people, and the World Health Organization predicts this number will reach 78 million by 2030.
'When someone can no longer perform the tasks they once managed easily, such as cooking or holding a conversation, that's when we begin to suspect it could be dementia,' said consultant neurologist Dr Mohamad Imran Idris.
'The hallmark of dementia isn't just forgetfulness; it is when thinking skills interfere with daily life – language, judgement, even recognising familiar faces. That is when it is time to get help.'
Dr Mohamad Imran Idris.
Imran also clarified the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease, explaining that the latter is just one type of dementia.
'Dementia is an umbrella term. Alzheimer's is the most well-known, but in Malaysia, vascular dementia – caused by impaired blood flow to the brain, often after a stroke or due to chronic illnesses – is also very common,' he said.
According to Imran, conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes are key contributors to vascular dementia.
Notably, the doctor stressed that dementia is no longer an old person's disease. 'It's not just grandma or grandpa anymore. We've seen people in their 40s and even 30s developing early signs after strokes or years of unmanaged chronic illness.'
While there is no cure for dementia, the good news is, certain medicines can slow its progression. Additionally, screening tools, from digital cognitive assessments to blood tests that detect early brain changes, are becoming more accessible, Imran said.
Individuals both young and old should invest early in their future cognitive health. (Envato Elements pic)
In the meantime, it's important for everyone to keep their brain healthy and engaged. While diet and exercise are known brain boosters, socialising also plays a powerful role.
'Talking with friends, engaging in conversation – these spontaneous, unpredictable interactions challenge the brain and help preserve cognitive function,' Imran added.
Ultimately, those in their 40s and 50s should start thinking seriously about their brain health, on top of controlling their blood pressure, staying socially engaged, sleeping well, and eating a balanced diet.
'These aren't just good habits – they're investments in your future cognitive health. If we care for our hearts to avoid a heart attack, we should do the same for our brains,' he concluded.