Dr Sonya Miller, medical director at TauRx Therapeutics Management, believes we should listen to Professor Sir Mike Richards – who was appointed national cancer director in 1999 – who has said that dementia should be given the same ambition as cancer care.
She said: “With dementia well acknowledged as one of the world’s greatest unmet medical needs, it is critical we take heed of what Sir Mike is saying.
“The Alzheimer’s Society’s own figures show the number of people in the UK with dementia is expected to climb to 1.4 million within the next 15 years, so it is imperative we address the concerns raised as soon as possible.
“Dementia doesn’t discriminate, and the crisis in the UK is only going to deepen, but we can mitigate its impact by taking action now.
“It is vital we don’t lose sight of our brain health, and it is therefore important to spend time challenging our brains daily to help limit the impact of conditions like dementia.
“Maintaining cognitive function relies on the same principles as overall wellbeing: eat well, sleep well, moving and stay connected. These simple, timeless habits may be critical in helping us to slow the rate of cognitive decline.
“The challenge lies in making these practices routine.”
Contact details are available to account holders.
Create a free account to get in touch with this expert.