In light of the growing number of cases of this neurodegenerative disease, which affects more than 900,000 people in Spain and is the most common form of dementia, Dr Yahveth Cantero-Fortiz explains: “The fact that we are living longer means that more people are entering the age group at highest risk. We also now have better diagnostic tools, which allow us to detect more cases.”
According to the specialist from UIC Barcelona and Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, although there is no single profile of a person affected, women exhibit a higher prevalence – attributed to both their longevity and to potential biological and hormonal factors. High blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle and limited cognitive engagement are among the principal risk factors. Genetic factors may also influence the likelihood of developing the disease, with certain variants associated with increased risk. However, “lifestyle choices and preventive measures play a significant role in mitigating that risk,” Dr Cantero-Fortiz emphasises.
The first symptoms usually appear as frequent forgetfulness of recent events, difficulty retrieving words or mild disorientation. “When these memory lapses begin to interfere with daily organisation or social relationships, it is time to consult a specialist,” the medical researcher advises.
In recent years, significant advances have been made in biomarkers, neuroimaging techniques and drugs targeting beta-amyloid proteins, which help slow the progression of the disease. These are complemented by non-pharmacological therapies such as cognitive stimulation, physical exercise and healthy lifestyle measures. “Early detection does not currently prevent the disease, but it can slow its progression and help preserve cognitive functions for longer,” says Dr Cantero. In this regard, the specialist notes that artificial intelligence is beginning to facilitate earlier and more personalised diagnoses, thanks to its ability to process large volumes of clinical data and detect subtle patterns.
Despite these advances, the lecturer in the Department of Medicine at UIC Barcelona and researcher at Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona believes that current public healthcare resources remain insufficient. Key priorities include improved training in primary care, faster access to diagnostic tests, strengthened psychosocial support services and the development of community prevention programmes.
Finally, the specialist reminds us that we can all contribute to preserving brain health through healthy lifestyle habits: “Staying physically and mentally active, looking after cardiovascular health, sleeping well, eating a balanced diet and nurturing social relationships are key to promoting healthy ageing and reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.”
