Tomorrow is World Brain Day, and the Neurological Association of South Africa is raising awareness about Dementia prevention and how lifestyle choices can protect your brain and your future.
South Africa (21 July 2025) – Dementia affects millions of families around the globe, and if current trends continue, that number is set to skyrocket. But there’s hopeful news, because many cases could be prevented. This World Brain Day (22 July), South Africans are being encouraged to take action, not only for their own brain health but for the future health of their communities too.
According to the World Health Organisation, over 57 million people currently live with dementia. That number is projected to hit 153 million by 2050, with the greatest increases in low and middle-income countries, including right here in sub-Saharan Africa. In fact, the region is expected to see dementia cases more than triple, from just over 2 million today to 7.6 million by 2050.
But here’s the powerful part: up to 45% of these cases could be prevented by addressing known risk factors. That’s nearly one in every two.
“Dementia isn’t just about ageing, it’s about lifelong brain health,” says Dr Patty Francis, President of the Neurological Association of South Africa. “What we do in our 30s, 40s, and 50s directly shapes our brain’s future.”
Dr Francis explains that dementia often begins with decades of exposure to silent, modifiable risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, poor sleep, chronic stress, hearing loss, and even social isolation. Add to that the region’s heavy burden of HIV and stroke, and the need for proactive prevention becomes even clearer.
It’s Never Too Early, or Too Late
From maternal nutrition and childhood immunisations, to midlife stress management and staying socially connected in older age, every stage of life presents an opportunity to protect your brain.
“We must stop thinking of dementia as something that ‘just happens’ when we’re older,” says Dr Francis. “Instead, we should think about what we’re doing for our brain health every day, whether that’s choosing healthier food, getting more sleep, checking our blood pressure, or even picking up the phone to call a friend.”
While 14 major risk factors have been identified by global researchers, diet is emerging as an especially powerful tool. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports brain health and helps prevent many of the chronic diseases that increase dementia risk.
Spotting the Signs
While dementia looks different in every person, common red flags include:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Difficulty speaking, writing, or understanding language
- Confusion about time, place, or routine tasks
- Changes in personality, mood, or judgement
- Withdrawal from social or work activities
- Trouble with movement, coordination, or planning
- And importantly, these symptoms should never be brushed off as “just getting older.”
“Even younger adults can show signs of cognitive decline,” says Dr Francis. “If you notice persistent changes, don’t wait. Speak to a GP or ask for a referral to a neurologist.”
Support is Available
While there’s no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are treatment options that can improve quality of life, especially when the diagnosis comes early. Some types of dementia, such as those caused by HIV or vitamin B12 deficiency, can be treated and even reversed.
Treatment may include:
- Medication to ease symptoms
- Cognitive rehab and occupational therapy
- Managing underlying conditions like hypertension or diabetes
And while newer therapies, like anti-amyloid drugs, are on the horizon, they remain out of reach for most South Africans. That’s why early screening, specialist care, and education are the country’s most urgent needs.
“We must also tackle the stigma,” says Dr Francis. “Dementia doesn’t mean the end of dignity or community. Families need support, not shame.”
This World Brain Day, Let’s Rethink Brain Health
The message is clear: Healthy brains build healthy communities.
What we do today, this week, and this year matters. From getting a blood pressure check to learning more about brain-boosting foods to supporting a loved one with early memory loss, prevention starts with awareness, education, and action.
Where to Get Help
If you’re worried about yourself or a loved one, reach out:
- Your trusted GP or local clinic
- Neurology departments at major hospitals
- Alzheimer’s South Africa (ADASA) – for support, resources and guidance
Because it’s not just about living longer—it’s about living with clarity, dignity, and connection.
by 