While brain aging is a natural process, it can be slowed down, said Dr. Sergey Illarioshkin, deputy head of the Scientific Center of Neurology (SCN). According to him, recent research shows that the volume of key brain structures responsible for cognitive function actually increases with each decade, thanks to improved education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.
This increase in brain size may contribute to a lower incidence of neurodegenerative diseases within specific populations, despite the overall rise in Alzheimer's cases due to longer lifespans, the Russian scientist noted. This is because neurons, unlike other cells, do not divide, making them vulnerable to damage and aging over time.
"It should be understood that brain aging, as well as the aging of the body, is an absolutely natural biological process, which no one can cancel," Dr. Illarioshkin said.
However, beyond aging, several factors contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases, according to Dr. Illarioshkin:
Environmental toxins: Agrochemicals, heavily used in agriculture, have been linked to Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. While use has decreased, these chemicals persist in soil and water.
Infections: the Herpes simplex virus and COVID-19 have been shown to increase the risk of Alzheimer's.
Air pollution: Smoke from forest fires, exacerbated by climate change, contributes to Alzheimer's-related changes.
Lifestyle: Lack of physical and mental activity, as well as chronic conditions like arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndrome, negatively impact brain health.
"The number of patients with Alzheimer's disease is increasing, but in each specific population group, the incidence of the disease is decreasing due to a possible increase in the volume of the brain and some of its parts," the academician noted. "I always say that the brain needs a little help from a sensible attitude to life."
While the quest for a "fountain of youth" continues, Dr. Illarioshkin emphasized that there's no magic pill for preventing brain aging.
He noted that although neuroprotective drugs are being researched, none have proven effective in slowing down, stopping, or reversing neurodegenerative diseases in clinical settings. While these drugs might work in lab experiments, their effectiveness in humans with existing conditions is limited, the leading scientist added.
So, what's the solution?
Dr. Illarioshkin emphasizes a proactive approach to brain health, focusing on lifestyle and prevention. "Your brain is like a car," he explains, "it needs to be used regularly to function properly." He advocated for:
Intensive Cognitive Load: Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as learning new languages, reading complex literature, and reviving old hobbies like playing music. Simple crosswords won't suffice – think Dostoevsky, not Sudoku.
Regular Check-ups: Starting at age 40, regular medical check-ups are crucial to identify and control risk factors for brain health, like high blood pressure, heart conditions, and diabetes.
Sleep: Prioritizing sleep is essential, allowing the brain's lymphatic system, the "glymphatic system," to clear out harmful proteins that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. Aim for six to seven hours of quality sleep every night.
"During sleep in a horizontal position, especially at night, the activity of this so-called glymphatic system is highest. Therefore, night sleep should not be sacrificed," Dr. Illarioshkin advised. "A person should not feel broken from year to year every day because of lack of sleep. It is extremely harmful."
The Silent Threat
Commenting on why many drugs do not work with neurodegenerative diseases, Dr. Illarioshkin highlighted that diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's are insidious, progressing silently for years before symptoms become apparent.
The damage often begins 15–20 years before any noticeable signs, meaning by the time a diagnosis is made, a significant portion of brain cells are already lost.
"The first clinical manifestations of the disease are detected when the brain's defense mechanisms are almost exhausted. This is why many drugs do not work," he said.
To combat this, scientists are focusing on early detection and "pre-early" diagnostic methods. Identifying premorbid signs, such as subtle memory lapses, spatial disorientation, difficulty with daily tasks, and changes in smell, can be crucial. These warning signs may not guarantee a diagnosis, but should prompt further investigation, Dr. Illarioshkin noted.
The fellow of the Russian Academy of Science says early-onset Alzheimer's disease, occurring before the age of 65, is typically linked to genetic mutations. These mutations can be identified through DNA testing, allowing for early intervention and even preimplantation genetic diagnosis to prevent the disease in future generations.
In conclusion, Dr. Illarioshkin emphasized the importance of a proactive approach to cognitive health, incorporating regular physical activity, mental stimulation, and social engagement. He credited hobbies like chess, which he personally enjoys when time allows, for mental agility and relaxation.
"You have to find time for yourself and your hobbies," the Russian scholar said. "This is a preventive measure not only for cognitive health, but also for possible depression. Therefore, there should be a favorite activity and a pleasant social circle, which is very important for the elderly. Socializing means new connections, new memories, new material for analysis, which inevitably improves the age-related plasticity of the brain."