‘Alzheimer Prevalence, Low In Nigeria’

A Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Dayo Adegbaju, on Saturday
attributed the lack of awareness about Alzheimer disease in Nigeria to its very
low prevalence rate.

It is reported that Alzheimer disease is caused by the
degeneration of brain cells and nerves which impacts on the functions of the
brain thereby affecting day-to-day activities of the victim.

Adegbaju, who spoke in an interview with the press in Lagos,
said that the disease may not necessarily be part of the aging process as not
all elderly people had it.

“Many people are unaware of the disease and this makes
people ignore the symptoms which include memory loss, changes in behaviour.

“People view such as part of the aging process and gradually
such patients live with the disease throughout without being given the care
they need. “

He said that the prevalence rate of the disease in the
country was about 0.5 per cent, which according to him is very low.

“The average life expectancy in Nigeria is not up to 65
years and that is what accounts for the low prevalence rate, “ he said.

He advised that any aged person, who had memory problem and
changes in lifestyle, should be taken to the hospital in order to stop the
disease or prevent progression.

Adegbaju said that the disease could be managed through drug
usage, social or supportive care.

The World Alzheimer’s
Day is celebrated every Sept. 21 to create awareness and sensitise people about
the disease.