Podcast Summary
Neurological diseases prevention: Living a healthy lifestyle by getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating healthily, avoiding harmful substances, and socializing and stimulating the brain can reduce risks of neurological diseases like epilepsy, strokes, and dementia
Our brain, which is our most valuable asset, is often overlooked. Neurological diseases, such as epilepsy, strokes, and dementia, affect a significant number of people in South Africa, with two South Africans suffering from a stroke every 10 minutes. These diseases are not limited to others, but rather, over half of people will develop some neurological illness in their lifetime. Prevention is key, and living a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risks. Basic steps include getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating healthily, avoiding harmful substances, and socializing and stimulating the brain through learning and practicing skills. By prioritizing these simple yet effective habits, we can significantly reduce our risks of neurological diseases.
Aging and neurological diseases in South Africa: As people age, the risk of undetected strokes leading to cognitive decline increases significantly. Prevention and early detection are crucial, but access to resources is limited in South Africa, where around 25-50% of the population experiences debilitating neurological conditions and only approximately 180 neurologists are available.
As we age, particularly beyond 55 and 60, the likelihood of having tiny, undetected strokes, known as white matter disease, increases significantly. These strokes can lead to cognitive decline and memory issues. Prevention is key, and early detection is crucial for effective management. However, in South Africa, not everyone has equal access to these resources. For instance, around 25-50% of the population will experience a meat grain, a debilitating condition requiring good healthcare. With only approximately 180 neurologists in the country, meeting the healthcare needs of the population is a challenge. Therefore, efforts should be made to increase access to preventative measures and early detection tools for neurological diseases, especially in South Africa.