Dementia on the rise in Bangladesh

Founder and Secretary General of the Alzheimer Society of Bangladesh and Board Member of the International Dementia Academy, South Asia, Azizul Haque, said, "In Bangladesh, there are a minimum of 11 lakh patients suffering from dementia, and this figure will increase to 24 lakh by the year 2041."

He made this remark while speaking at a seminar titled 'Dementia - Social Awareness and the Importance of Early Detection' on the occasion of World Alzheimer Month (September) 2023, held on Monday at Jahangirnagar University (JU). 

The seminar was held as a joint initiative of the university's Microbiology department and the Alzheimer Society of Bangladesh.

He also stated in the seminar, "People from any strata of society can be affected by dementia. It is crucial for the national health of Bangladesh. It may eventually become a humanitarian disaster, so extensive research is needed. Since there is no cure for this disease, we should all become friends of dementia by extending our hand."

In the seminar, another discussant, Dr. Badrul Alam Sina, an expert in neurology and neuro-electro-physiology, said, "Approximately 8 per cent of our elderly population is suffering from dementia. Dementia is more common in people over 65 years of age, especially in women and illiterate individuals who use their brain less. It can also be caused by continuous noise pollution and serious head injuries." 

Dr. Sina also mentioned, "Between the ages of 30 and 40, controlling diabetes and high blood pressure can prevent vascular dementia. Therefore, there should be an emphasis on maintaining healthy eating habits, engaging in physical activity, and participating in social activities regularly."

Professor Md. Salequl Islam, Chairman of the Department of Microbiology, presided over the seminar, with Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammed Mostafa Feeroz as the chief guest. 

Acting Dean of the Faculty of Biological Sciences Md. Nuhu Alam, Professor of Physics AA Mamun, Professor of Microbiology Md. Anowar Khasru Parvez, Acting Chief Medical Officer of the University Md. Shamsur Rahman and others spoke as special guests. Associate Professor Dr. Salma Akter moderated the program.

The speakers emphasized early detection of dementia and the importance of social awareness for accurate diagnosis. A documentary on Alzheimer's awareness was screened. Approximately a hundred students from different departments were present. 

Earlier, the Department of Microbiology organized a rally with the slogan 'Walk for Dementia.' The rally passed by the university's important memorials and concluded before the senate hall.

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