Experts have found that friends and family members are often the first to notice signs of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Mild forgetfulness is commonly seen as a normal part of aging, but it can also be symptomatic of MCI, an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease. However, many people with MCI don’t realize they have it and miss out on treatment. Studies show that very few cases of MCI are actually diagnosed. This is a problem because MCI can lead to dementia if left untreated. The underdiagnosis of MCI is influenced by socioeconomic and clinical factors. Those with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health issues are at higher risk. Historically disadvantaged groups, such as those with less education and Black and Hispanic Americans, have even lower rates of MCI diagnosis. Primary care clinicians are also under-diagnosing MCI. MCI doesn’t cause disability, but it can make daily tasks more challenging. There are different forms of MCI, including forgetfulness and difficulty with tasks. It’s essential to improve detection of MCI because early treatment can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Digital tests administered before a medical visit can aid in detection efforts. Treatment should be started as early as possible because the brain cannot recover lost cells or repair damage. Primary care doctors sometimes underestimate the seriousness of MCI and fail to offer effective treatments. Family members are often the first to notice cognitive changes and should be involved in the screening process. Non-invasive digital technologies offer pragmatic solutions for identifying and treating cognitive conditions. Doctors are working on finding ways to identify reversible causes of memory loss early on. Inflammation, insulin resistance, nutritional deficiencies, and toxins are potential factors that can impair brain function. Improving overall health can help protect brain function as people age.
Unveiling a Commonly Overlooked Condition: The Astonishing Lack of Awareness Among Individuals
