The Alzheimer's threat is growing in Turkey: The number of patients will more than double by 2050

Alzheimer's is no longer just a simple case of age-related forgetfulness; it is becoming a serious public health issue that is growing rapidly in Turkey, just as it is across the world. Prof. Dr. Başar Bilgiç, a faculty member at the Istanbul University Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, issued striking warnings regarding the future of the disease and ways to prevent it. According to experts, the number of Alzheimer's patients in Turkey could more than double to reach 1.75 million within the next 25 years.

Prof. Dr. Başar Bilgiç emphasizes that Alzheimer's should not be confused with ordinary age-related forgetfulness. While normal forgetfulness is mild, Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that gradually destroys memory and brain functions.

"A person might completely forget a topic they discussed in the morning by the evening, miss appointments, or ask the same question repeatedly at short intervals," says Bilgiç, adding that when such symptoms begin to affect daily life, one should consult a physician without delay.

2050 PROJECTION: ONE IN EVERY FOUR PEOPLE WILL BE ELDERLY

The fact that Turkey is among the countries with a rapidly aging population is accelerating the rise in Alzheimer's cases. The number of patients, which is approximately 700 thousand today, is expected to rise to **1.4 to 1.75 million** by the year 2050. The primary reason for this increase is the rapid growth of the population over the age of 65. Prof. Dr. Bilgiç stated, "In 2050, this rate will rise to 23%, meaning one in every four people will be elderly. Therefore, Alzheimer's disease will become one of the most significant health problems for society."

WAYS TO PREVENT: WHAT IS GOOD FOR THE HEART IS GOOD FOR THE BRAIN

According to Prof. Dr. Bilgiç, it is necessary to understand that the disease is not solely about genetic predisposition. Lifestyle changes are among the most powerful weapons in preventing the disease.

Stating that factors that impair vascular health, such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and smoking, increase the risk of Alzheimer's, Bilgiç recommends the following:

Regular physical activity

Mediterranean-style diet

Quality sleep

Social interaction

The expert draws attention to the importance of lifestyle, saying, "Healthy steps taken, especially in middle age, provide the strongest protection against Alzheimer's."

 PROMISING NEW TREATMENTS

While treatments that only alleviate symptoms have been used for years, new drugs developed recently can change the course of the disease. "With new drugs that aim to clear the amyloid protein, the rate of disease progression can be slowed by 20-35%," said Bilgiç, noting that this development is a turning point. This allows patients to perform their daily tasks independently for a longer period. He added that thanks to Turkey's MRI infrastructure and expert physicians, these treatments can also be applied in our country.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: DO NOT LEAVE THEM ALONE

Prof. Dr. Bilgiç emphasizes that Alzheimer's is not only a problem for patients but also for their families. "Patient relatives are left alone both financially and emotionally," says Bilgiç, stating that affordable care centers and psychological support services that prioritize patient safety must be increased.

Finally, he makes this call to society: "Alzheimer's is an issue for all of us. Let us not view forgetfulness as destiny. Let us not stigmatize patients, let us not be ashamed, let us talk and provide support."