More than 36,500 people are currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in the Valencia Region
Specialists recommend seeking medical advice if persistent memory problems, behavioural changes, disorientation, language difficulties or problems carrying out everyday tasks begin to appear
More than 36,500 people in the Valencia Region currently have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, according to the latest available figures from the regional health authorities.
The impact of the disease increases particularly with age, and to mark World Alzheimer’s Day on 21 September, specialists are stressing the importance of recognising the early warning signs and seeking a diagnosis as soon as possible.
“Detecting Alzheimer’s in its early stages allows us to understand sooner what is happening, rule out other possible causes of cognitive decline and determine the most appropriate approach for each patient,” explains Dr Erika Torres, Head of the Advanced Neurosciences Department at Quirónsalud Torrevieja and Quirónsalud Alicante.
Early signs of Alzheimer’s disease
Occasional forgetfulness can occur as people get older and does not necessarily indicate a neurodegenerative disease. The warning signs begin when memory problems become persistent, progressive and start interfering with everyday life.
Repeatedly asking the same questions, forgetting recent events, becoming disorientated in familiar places, struggling to find the right words or finding previously simple tasks increasingly difficult are among the symptoms that should prompt a medical consultation.
“We should not simply accept memory loss as normal because someone is getting older. When forgetfulness becomes recurrent, progresses or begins to affect a person’s independence, a specialist assessment is important,” warns Dr Torres.
“In fact, we should not wait until it starts affecting everyday life. As soon as we notice these changes, we should consult a specialist.”
Alzheimer’s does not only affect memory. Early symptoms can also include language difficulties, problems with orientation, difficulty planning or making decisions, and changes in behaviour.
The way the disease first presents can vary considerably from one person to another, making an individual assessment particularly important.
Why early diagnosis matters
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease has advanced considerably in recent years. Alongside a patient’s medical history and neuropsychological assessment, specialists now have access to imaging tests and biomarkers that can provide more detailed information about changes associated with the disease.
“The aim is to diagnose earlier and more accurately. The more precise the assessment, the better we can determine the patient’s needs, plan their follow-up and provide guidance to their family,” says Dr Torres.
An early diagnosis also makes it possible to address other important aspects from the initial stages, including managing cardiovascular risk factors, maintaining physical activity, cognitive stimulation, social interaction and healthy lifestyle habits.
New treatment options for Alzheimer’s
Advances in diagnosis have been accompanied in recent years by the development of new therapies targeting the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain, one of the processes associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
These include anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies, which are intended for very specific groups of patients in the early stages of the disease.
Before these treatments can be considered, the presence of amyloid pathology must be confirmed, and patients require careful selection and monitoring.
“We are not talking about a cure, nor are these treatments suitable for every patient. However, their emergence makes detecting the disease in its earliest stages even more important,” Dr Torres explains.
“The future of Alzheimer’s lies in diagnosis that is increasingly early, accurate and personalised.”