This is the astonishing observation of a study presented on the site of the American weekly Time. According to a survey of more than 6,000 people from 12 different countries, Alzheimer’s is the most feared disease, behind cancer, for a quarter of those polled.
However, in some countries such as India, China or Saudi Arabia, an overwhelming majority (80%) confuse and consider Alzheimer’s disease as a normal consequence of aging. Much more complicated than that, this degenerative disease causes a progressive decline in cognitive faculties and memory, and symptoms usually appear after 65 years. Over time, the person affected has more and more difficulty memorizing events, recognizing objects and faces, remembering the meanings of words and exercising judgment. In its advanced stage, Alzheimer’s disease becomes fatal, like cancer.
Only people with a family history are affected
The survey also reveals that 40% of respondents consider that only people with a family history can be affected. “Alzheimer’s disease knows no bounds” reacts Harry Johns, president and director of Alzheimer’s Association, American association. “Anyone with a brain is at risk for Alzheimer’s disease,” he adds.
Contrary to popular belief, and although it is one of the factors, Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal consequence of aging. No one is condemned to disease as they age. Risk factors for cardiovascular disease (hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, etc.) also seem to contribute to its development. It is also possible that infections or exposure to toxic products play a role in some cases but no formal evidence has been obtained.
Alzheimer’s affects around 1% of the elderly65 to 69, 20% of those aged 85 to 89 and 40% of those aged 90 to 95. It is estimated that 1 in 8 men and 1 in 4 women will suffer from it in their lifetime. As women live longer, they are more likely to one day get it.
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