Dementia risk rises in Telangana

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

A joint study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, has found that a significant section of Telangana’s population is at risk of developing dementia. The study, carried out among 556 adults aged between 40 and 80 years during 2023-24, revealed that 39% of participants could face dementia-related problems in the future.

Researchers found that the risk is considerably higher in rural areas than in urban centres. While 27% of urban residents surveyed were found to be vulnerable, the figure rose to 60% among rural participants. The study attributes the higher risk in villages to poor dietary diversity and deficiencies in essential vitamins and nutrients.

Women were found to be more susceptible than men, accounting for 55% of those in the risk category. The survey also identified widespread nutritional deficiencies, including Vitamin B2 deficiency in 64% of participants, Vitamin D deficiency in 42%, Vitamin B6 deficiency in 34%, and Vitamin B12 deficiency in 17%.

Experts said these deficiencies are linked to cognitive decline and memory loss. Since there is no definitive cure for dementia, researchers stressed that a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy products and other nutrient-rich foods remains the best preventive measure.