Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Week: DOH emphasizes importance of brain health
The Department of Health (DOH) officially commenced Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Week on Thursday, Sept. 21.

The DOH has announced that the event, to run from Sept. 21 to 25, is a vital initiative focused on raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease and advocating for brain health.
"Ipinapaalala natin na mahalaga ang kalusugan ng utak sa lahat ng yugto ng ating buhay (We remind everyone that brain health is important in all stages of our lives)," DOH said, emphasizing the importance of brain health.
Based on the 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) data, 2,010 deaths in the Philippines were attributed to Alzheimer's and dementia, making up 0.30 percent of the overall mortality rate.
The DOH highlighted that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which included regular exercise and a well-balanced diet, could improve cognitive well-being.
Individuals were also strongly advised by the DOH to avoid smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug usage, as these habits could harm brain health.
Moreover, the DOH urged the public to stay informed about conditions that could impact brain health, as every health-related decision made at that time shaped their future.
If needed, DOH encouraged individuals to seek additional information about Alzheimer's disease by consulting their primary care providers. (Zekinah Elize Espina)