BD’s 1.1m dementia cases may soar to 2.4m by 2041

There are at least 1.1 million people in Bangladesh suffering from dementia - a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving, and other thinking abilities. The caseload may increase to 2.4 million by 2041, according to public health activists and specialists.
At a seminar at Jahangirnagar University on Monday, they emphasised maintaining healthy eating habits, engaging in physical activity and participating in social activities, since there is no specific cure for the disease.
"People from any strata of society can be affected by dementia. It is crucial for the national health of Bangladesh. It may eventually become a humanitarian disaster, so extensive research is needed," said Azizul Haque, founder and secretary-general of Alzheimer Society of Bangladesh and a board member of the International Dementia Academy, South Asia.
The seminar was titled 'Dementia - Social Awareness & the Importance of Early Detection' on the occasion of World Alzheimer's Month (September). The university's microbiology department and the Alzheimer Society of Bangladesh jointly organised the programme.
At the seminar, Dr Badrul Alam Sina, an expert in neurology and neuro-electro-physiology, said, "Nearly 8 per cent of our elderly population is suffering from dementia. Dementia is more common in people over 65 years of age, especially in women and illiterate individuals who use their brain less."
He said continuous noise pollution and serious head injuries can also cause the disease. Dr Sina also mentioned that between the ages of 30 and 40, controlling diabetes and high blood pressure can prevent vascular dementia.
Professor Md Salequl Islam, chairman of the Department of Microbiology, presided over the seminar, with Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammed Mostafa Feeroz as the chief guest.
Acting Dean of the Faculty of Biological Sciences Md Nuhu Alam, Professor of Physics AA Mamun, Professor of Microbiology Md Anowar Khasru Parvez, Acting Chief Medical Officer of the University Md Shamsur Rahman, and others spoke as special guests. The programme was moderated by Associate Professor Dr Salma Akter.
The speakers emphasised early detection of dementia and the importance of social awareness for proper diagnosis. A documentary on Alzheimer's awareness was screened.
Earlier, the Department of Microbiology organised a procession with the slogan 'Walk for Dementia'. It passed through the university's key points and concluded in front of the senate hall.