Alzheimer’s disease growing concern in India as population ages: Expert

New Delhi: “Alzheimer’s disease is emerging as a major health challenge in India as the population ages. Currently, more than 8.8 million people in the country live with dementia, of which 60–70% are cases of Alzheimer’s. The highest prevalence has been reported from Odisha and Jammu & Kashmir. With life expectancy on the rise, more individuals are reaching the age where Alzheimer’s typically sets in—after 60 years. Yet, awareness remains limited, and the condition is often undiagnosed or dismissed as a normal part of ageing,” stated Dr. Kunal Bahrani, Clinical Director – Neurology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad, in the run-up to World Alzheimer’s Day.

“Alzheimer’s cases in India have been rising steadily due to multiple factors,” Dr. Bahrani noted. “An ageing population, sedentary habits, unhealthy diets, stress, and lack of physical activity are key contributors. Lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease—also on the rise—further elevate the risk. Over the next 10 to 20 years, India is expected to witness a sharp increase in Alzheimer’s cases, with the number of dementia patients projected to double by 2036.”

Dr. Bahrani emphasized that early diagnosis and timely lifestyle interventions can slow disease progression and help reduce the overall burden. He stressed that the coming two decades will be critical for India to plan resources, train healthcare professionals, and spread awareness about prevention and management.

Highlighting the risk factors, he said: “The likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s increases significantly after 60, rising with every passing decade. Genetics also play a role, with those who have close relatives affected by Alzheimer’s facing higher risk. Unhealthy lifestyle choices—sedentary behavior, poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress—further contribute, along with comorbidities like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Mental inactivity, such as lack of social interactions or limited intellectual stimulation, can also accelerate the onset.”

While Alzheimer’s is generally associated with older adults, Dr. Bahrani pointed out that younger people, usually between 40 and 60 years, may develop a rare and aggressive form known as early-onset Alzheimer’s. “Symptoms of early-onset Alzheimer’s may appear subtle—such as memory lapses, reduced work performance, or difficulty managing daily tasks. Because it is uncommon in younger adults, these signs are often mistaken for stress, depression, or burnout. Any persistent cognitive issues, even before 60, should be medically evaluated,” he advised.

Dispelling common myths, Dr. Bahrani clarified: “The biggest misconception is that memory loss is just a part of normal ageing. Alzheimer’s is a serious, progressive condition that goes far beyond forgetfulness, impacting judgment, behavior, and daily functioning. Another myth is that it only affects the elderly, while in reality, early-onset cases do occur. Many also believe nothing can be done once diagnosed. Though a cure is not yet available, medical treatment and lifestyle changes can slow progression and significantly improve quality of life.”

He also underlined recent advances in Alzheimer’s care, particularly in early detection and disease-modifying treatments. “New imaging technologies such as functional MRI, supported by AI, can detect brain connectivity changes years before symptoms arise. On the treatment front, FDA-approved monoclonal antibodies now target amyloid plaques, slowing cognitive decline in early Alzheimer’s. This marks a paradigm shift from merely managing symptoms to actively altering the course of the disease.”