Understanding Brain Health: A Comprehensive Look at Cognitive Function

The Importance of Cognitive Health

As we navigate through life, our brain health becomes increasingly vital. With the aging population in Hong Kong, the number of individuals diagnosed with cognitive disorders is expected to rise. Recent surveys reveal alarming statistics about brain health, particularly among younger and middle-aged adults.

The Tai Ping Shan Youth Chamber of Commerce conducted a survey focusing on brain health, discovering that 6% of respondents were classified as high-risk for cognitive issues. Professor Mok Chung-tong, a neurologist at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, estimates that around 150,000 people in Hong Kong currently suffer from cognitive disorders. This number is projected to double in the next 15 years.

Preventing Cognitive Disorders

Prevention is key when it comes to cognitive disorders. Professor Mok emphasizes that preventive measures should begin 15 to 20 years before symptoms appear. By addressing risk factors such as lack of exercise, poor lipid control, vision issues, and high blood pressure, up to 45% of cognitive disorder cases could potentially be prevented.

The survey conducted by the Tai Ping Shan Youth Chamber of Commerce utilized the CAIDE score, which predicts future cognitive disorder risk. A score of 15 is the maximum, with higher scores indicating greater risk. Those scoring 9 or above are considered high-risk and may develop cognitive disorders within the next 20 years.

The survey gathered responses from 400 individuals, with 378 from Hong Kong and 22 from Macau and Taiwan. The average age of respondents was 41, with women making up 52% of the sample. The results indicated that 6% of participants were classified as high-risk for brain health issues.

Understanding the Risks

The average CAIDE score revealed that men had a higher risk of cognitive disorders compared to women. Men scored an average of 4.6, while women scored 3.6. The primary risk factors for men included being overweight, having diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, and smoking. In contrast, women faced risks primarily due to lack of exercise and vision problems.

Professor Mok reiterated that improving the 14 identified risk factors could significantly reduce the incidence of cognitive disorders. Clinical studies have shown that elderly individuals who engage in consistent exercise can restore cognitive abilities to levels seen three years prior.

He stated, “Preventing cognitive disorders requires action 15 to 20 years in advance. About 10% of individuals over 70 will face cognitive issues; in Hong Kong, one in three people may encounter this problem. Prevention should start before the age of 50; waiting until retirement at 65 is too late.”

Advances in Treatment

For those diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease, new medications have emerged in the past two years that can slow the progression of the disease by 30%. However, these treatments are costly and require administration via injections every two weeks to a month. There is hope that the prices of these medications will decrease in the future. Professor Mok's team is currently developing a drug aimed at reversing cognitive decline, with the first phase of clinical trials expected to launch by 2028.

Innovative Approaches to Brain Health

The "Challenge Your Brain—National Brain Health Survey" committee, led by Chairman Chiu Chun-long, is collaborating with organizations like Si Tong Research and Vision Care to develop groundbreaking artificial intelligence technology for retinal image analysis. This technology will assess Alzheimer's risk and overall brain health. The goal is to implement this technology in optical shops, making it easier for the public to monitor their brain health.

In conclusion, maintaining brain health is crucial for preserving cognitive function and cherished memories. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, individuals can significantly enhance their brain health. For more information on brain health solutions, visit INFItech Limited.

Wen Wei Po