A collaborative program in Bodrum, Turkey, highlighted the potential to significantly reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease through preventative measures. The initiative, held on March 13, 2026, brought together the Bodrum Municipality Women and Family Services Department, the Bodrum branch of the Turkish Alzheimer Association, and the Bodrum Business, Industry and Tradesmen Association (BESIAD). This underscores the growing global focus on proactive approaches to neurodegenerative diseases.
Age is a Key Risk Factor
Dr. Melek Kandemir Yılmaz, a neurologist and head of the Turkish Alzheimer Association’s Bodrum branch, emphasized that age is a primary risk factor for developing Alzheimer’s. “As age increases, the risk of Alzheimer’s increases exponentially,” she stated. “With preventative measures, we can reduce the risk of the disease by 45 percent.”
Dr. Yılmaz noted that approximately 12% of the population in Turkey is over the age of 65, a figure projected to rise to 25% by 2080. This demographic shift highlights the increasing importance of Alzheimer’s prevention strategies.
While only 5-10% of Alzheimer’s cases have a genetic component, typically manifesting at a younger age, Dr. Yılmaz explained that other factors play a significant role.
In addition to advanced age, female gender, lower levels of education, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases all increase the risk. She as well cited sleep disorders, sleep apnea, air pollution, hearing and vision loss, a history of severe depression in middle age, and smoking as contributing factors.
A Disease Requiring Treatment and Monitoring
Dr. Yılmaz pointed out that Alzheimer’s was often dismissed as age-related forgetfulness in the past, but advancements in diagnostic methods now allow for more accurate detection. Brain and spinal fluid analysis can now clearly identify Alzheimer’s pathology.
She stressed that Alzheimer’s is not a condition to be ashamed of, but rather a disease requiring treatment and ongoing monitoring, similar to conditions like hypertension or diabetes.
“Two-thirds of patients are women, so raising awareness about protection for women is crucial,” Dr. Yılmaz added.
Mediterranean Diet and Active Lifestyle Recommended
Dr. Yılmaz emphasized the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preventing Alzheimer’s, recommending a Mediterranean diet, regular sleep, avoiding processed foods, engaging in mental and social activities, and regular exercise. These lifestyle factors can all contribute to reducing risk.
