With the use of modern technology in the national hospital network, Cuba has expanded perspectives for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's, a neurodegenerative condition that is the first cause of dementia.

Experts insist in the early detection of the condition to hold up the progress of the disease.

Alzheimer's affects 8% of the population older than 65 years and 30% of those over 80 in countries with a long life expectancy, while in Cuba, 9 to 11 percent of people 60 years and older suffer from this condition.
The Cuban section of the World Alzheimer's Association was awarded earlier this year a prize for the outstanding results of studies about the disease carried out in the island.

Memory loss and speech difficulties are the main symptoms of Alzheimer's and sudden changes of behavior, anxiety or depression crises can appear during the progress of the condition.

According to experts, people suffering from Alzheimer can even gradually lose the ability to communicate and the normal functions of the body.

In order to reduce the risks of developing this neurological illness, doctors suggest a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains and avoid the excessive consumption of alcohol and fat, make physical exercises and stay mentally active by doing different activities like reading, studying a language, etc.

Source: Caribbean Net News