Alzheimer's disease: insights for risk evaluation and prevention in the Chinese population and the need for a comprehensive programme in Hong Kong/China

With the ageing of the global population, China is projected to be impacted significantly by the rising number of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). A cure for AD is not yet available, so society should be prepared for an increasing AD-related burden. In this review, we examine this impend...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Hong Kong medical journal = Xianggang yi xue za zhi 2018-10, Vol.24 (5), p.492-500
Main Authors: Yee, A, Tsui, N By, Chang, Y N, Au, C Sm, Fok, M, Lau, L T, Chung, T, Chung, G, Kwan, R Yc, Leung, A Ym, Lau, J Yn, Dai, D Lk
Format: Article
Language:eng ; chi
Subjects:
Age
Aged
Alzheimer Disease - epidemiology
Alzheimer Disease - etiology
Alzheimer Disease - prevention & control
Alzheimer's disease
Asian Continental Ancestry Group
Asymptomatic
Atrophy
China - epidemiology
Cognitive ability
Dementia
Early Diagnosis
Female
Genomes
Health Services for the Aged
Hong Kong - epidemiology
Humans
Incidence
Male
Memory
Middle Aged
Older people
Peptides
Prevalence
Risk Factors
White people
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Summary:With the ageing of the global population, China is projected to be impacted significantly by the rising number of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD). A cure for AD is not yet available, so society should be prepared for an increasing AD-related burden. In this review, we examine this impending problem and provide overviews on (a) the magnitude of the problem of AD in Hong Kong/China in the near future; (b) the genetic and lifestyle risk factors that contribute to AD; (c) current diagnostic approaches and the potential of newly discovered genetic biomarkers for early detection; (d) medications, non-pharmacological interventions, and possible preventive measures; and (e) the need for social and psychological care from the community. In Hong Kong, primary care and AD-related support for at-risk individuals, patients, and caregivers are inadequate. A joint effort from the medical community, government, universities, non-governmental organisations/charities, and industry should initiate the development of a long-term programme for AD. Finally, we outline recommendations for the relevant parties to consider.
ISSN:1024-2708
2226-8707
DOI:10.12809/hkmj187244