2023-09-01 02:24:17
For more than 30 years, research into Alzheimer’s disease has attempted to find answers to this progressive and irreversible brain disorder that affects millions of people around the world, slowly destroying memory and cognitive abilities.
Although we don’t yet have a miracle cure, research has provided some clues as to the causes and management of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Dr. Kulrithra Pisanuwongrak, a neurologist specializing in cognitive disorders explores the latest advances in Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Kulrithra Pisanuwongrak
Q: Dr. Kulrithra, can you explain to us the impact of research on Alzheimer’s disease?
Dr. Kulrithra: We are seeing significant progress in Alzheimer’s disease research. The latest advancement is the introduction of the “Anti-amyloid” injection. This innovative approach stems from the fact that Alzheimer’s disease could potentially be linked to the accumulation of a “toxic” protein called amyloid in the brain.
However, this new treatment only works in the early stage of the disease and has significant side effects. Therefore, early detection and intervention remain of paramount importance.
Q: What are the main risk factors for people between 20 and 50?
Dr. Kulrithra: We found that aging, limited level of education and reduced social activities are the main risk factors. Any “stress” caused to our brain such as head injuries (single or multiple), metabolic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or arterial disease also increase the risk.
And interestingly, recent studies have found that lack of regular exercise, problems with constipation and an unhealthy diet also increase the risk.
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Additionally, people who carry the gene called “ApoE4” might also be at higher risk. They would be more prone to the accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain, as well as inflammation and brain damage, which increases their risk of developing the disease.
Q: How does sleep quality impact Alzheimer’s disease risk?
Dr. Kulrithra: Previous studies have shown that reduced sleep quality may reduce our ability to eliminate toxic proteins in the brain, which are major risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Recent research has looked at people with sleep apnea and found that those who had not been treated for the problem had higher levels of “brain knots” in their cerebrospinal fluid, indicative of brain degeneration.
Therefore, people with sleep problems should consult a healthcare professional to consider possible intervention.
Q: How do diet, hydration, and bowel habits affect our brain health?
Dr. Kulrithra: These are crucial elements for brain health. The brain is about 75% water, mild dehydration is enough to cause neurological problems and cognitive impairment. Drinking between 1.5 and 2 liters of water daily is recommended to keep your brain healthy. Also, there is growing evidence supporting a new concept called “Gut-Brain Axis” (gut-brain axis in French), which highlights the complex connection between gut bacteria and brain function. This means that our eating habits and our intestinal transit can also influence our brain health.
Q: What message would you like to convey to readers?
Dr. Kulrithra: As we commemorate Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, I encourage readers to stay informed and proactive in reducing the risk of the disease. Protect yourself against head injuries, prioritize sleep quality and engage in regular physical activity to improve your cardiovascular health. Also, maintain an adequate diet, good intestinal transit and good hydration.
Early detection through specific tests and interventions can significantly reduce or prevent the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in the future.
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