World Alzheimer’s Day observed globally

September 21 is World Alzheimer’s Day. The day is observed to spread awareness about Alzheimer’s disease across the globe.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is most common form of dementia (loss of memory). The disease, caused by the degeneration of brain cells and nerves, impacts functioning of the brain, affecting day-to-day activities in its victims. The disease is generally diagnosed in the people over 65-year age. The main symptoms include difficulty in remembering recent events which gradually develops into advance symptoms like confusion, irritability and aggression, mood swings, trouble with language, and long-term memory loss. There is no cure for the disease, which worsens as it progresses, and eventually leads to death.

About a fourth of the world’s Alzheimer’s patients live in India.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2012