Neurology specialist and pharmaceutical executive call for earlier detection, coordinated memory services and a national approach to cognitive health
The UAE should place brain health at the centre of its healthy ageing agenda, with experts advocating earlier identification of cognitive decline, improved access to specialist care and greater public awareness of Alzheimer’s disease.
Prof. Suhail Al Rukn, president of the Emirates Neurology Society, and Shady Ibrahim, executive medical director at Eli Lilly & Company’s Gulf operations, called for a more coordinated approach to protecting cognitive wellbeing as people live longer.
Their recommendations include integrating brain health into existing chronic disease strategies, introducing a national programme for early identification of cognitive decline and establishing specialised centres for memory and neurodegenerative conditions across the emirates.
Alzheimer’s Disease Demands Earlier Attention
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that can affect memory, language, reasoning and the ability to carry out everyday activities. Although forgetfulness may occur with age, Alzheimer’s is not an inevitable part of growing older.
Globally, approximately 55 million people live with dementia, including an estimated 32 million with Alzheimer’s disease, according to figures cited in the commentary.
Misconceptions Can Delay Diagnosis
One obstacle to better dementia care is the perception that cognitive decline is simply an unavoidable consequence of ageing.
The 2019 World Alzheimer Report found that 62 per cent of surveyed healthcare practitioners believed dementia was a normal part of ageing. The report also highlighted stigma as a barrier to diagnosis for people living with dementia and their caregivers.
Experts stress the importance of recognising persistent or progressive changes without treating every instance of forgetfulness as a sign of disease. Difficulties with memory, judgement, language or daily functioning can have several causes and should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional when concerns arise.
Greater awareness could encourage earlier conversations and help people access appropriate evaluation and support.
Medical Advances Require Stronger Care Pathways
Developments in diagnostic techniques and disease modifying treatments are changing the clinical landscape for Alzheimer’s disease. However, access to emerging treatments depends on individual circumstances, including disease stage, eligibility and the assessment of potential benefits and risks.
The experts argue that scientific progress must be accompanied by healthcare systems capable of identifying suitable patients and guiding them through diagnosis, treatment and continued care.
Primary care physicians need clear referral pathways, while neurologists, geriatricians, radiologists and other specialists must be able to coordinate assessments and management. Diagnostic facilities, follow-up protocols and caregiver support are also essential.
Three Proposals for the UAE
The commentary identifies several measures that could strengthen the country’s approach to cognitive health.
First, the authors propose a national brain health policy that incorporates dementia risk reduction into existing chronic disease strategies. This would connect cognitive wellbeing with established public health priorities rather than treating it as an isolated issue.
Second, they advocate a national programme for early identification of cognitive decline. The proposed approach would incorporate checks such as blood pressure, glucose and hearing assessments into routine primary-care visits, helping clinicians identify relevant risk factors and determine when further evaluation may be appropriate.
Third, they recommend establishing a centre of excellence for memory and neurodegenerative care in every emirate, supported by shared referral pathways and standards.
These measures are recommendations made by the authors; they should not be interpreted as confirmation that the proposed programme or centres have been formally adopted.
Prevention Begins Before Older Age
Brain health is shaped by several influences, including age, genetics, medical conditions and lifestyle. While not all dementia cases can be prevented, research indicates that addressing certain modifiable risk factors may reduce the overall burden.
The 2024 Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention and care identified 14 potentially modifiable risk factors, which researchers estimated could account collectively for around 45 per cent of dementia cases worldwide. These include hypertension, diabetes, hearing loss, physical inactivity, obesity and smoking.
Managing chronic conditions, maintaining physical activity and seeking appropriate medical care can contribute to long-term health. Integrating cognitive wellbeing into existing prevention programmes could also help people understand the importance of protecting brain health throughout adulthood.
Redefining Healthy Ageing
The recommendations come amid wider efforts to improve health and quality of life as populations age. They underline the need to consider cognitive wellbeing alongside physical health when planning healthcare services and public education initiatives.
Families need reliable information and the confidence to discuss memory concerns. Healthcare professionals need the knowledge and referral pathways to respond appropriately, while patients require access to coordinated services and continued support.
Ultimately, healthy ageing is not measured solely by life expectancy. It also involves preserving independence, maintaining social connections and helping people continue to participate in everyday life.
Giving brain health greater prominence in public health planning could help the UAE strengthen its response to Alzheimer’s disease and support individuals and families through the challenges associated with cognitive decline.