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In today’s fast-paced world, the relentless pursuit of success — commonly referred to as “hustle culture” — may carry serious health risks, including an increased likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease, experts caution. The combination of high workplace expectations, stress, anxiety, lack of physical activity, and poor dietary habits can act as a “perfect storm” for cognitive decline.
As the world observes World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21, with this year’s theme “Time to act on dementia, Time to act on Alzheimer’s,” experts are raising awareness of the link between modern work culture and the potential risk of developing this neurodegenerative disorder.
“Hustle culture compels people to work long hours, cutting down on sleep and embracing a lifestyle with minimal physical activity and unhealthy eating habits. These factors contribute to the increased deposition of abnormal proteins in the brain, which are linked to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Ishu Goyal, Deputy Consultant Neurologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, in an interview with IANS.
Stress, Sleep Deprivation, and Brain Health
Dr. Goyal explained that adequate sleep and a balanced diet play a crucial role in clearing harmful proteins from the brain. However, the constant pressure to meet deadlines and expectations in the workplace often leads to poor sleep and nutritional habits. “Continuous stress and anxiety force individuals to work longer hours while neglecting self-care. This imbalance can accelerate cognitive decline in people predisposed to dementia,” Goyal added.
She emphasized the importance of regular breaks, relaxation therapies, proper sleep, and physical exercise to maintain a healthy brain. Without these interventions, hustle culture could lead to an early onset of Alzheimer’s in genetically susceptible individuals.
Alzheimer’s and Its Global Impact
Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia, affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by cognitive decline, memory loss, and a gradual loss of independence, it remains a major public health concern. In India alone, an estimated 5 million people currently live with dementia, with Alzheimer’s accounting for 60-70% of cases. Globally, over 55 million individuals suffer from Alzheimer’s, a number projected to triple by 2050 if current trends continue.
While Alzheimer’s primarily affects older adults, particularly those over the age of 65, the rise in stress, unhealthy lifestyles, and poor mental health practices could potentially lower the age of onset for dementia in future generations, experts warn.
Not Just Memory Loss
“Alzheimer’s is not just about memory loss,” stated Dr. Praveen Gupta, Principal Director and Chief of Neurology at Fortis Hospital. “It is a progressive and irreversible deterioration of brain function, affecting thinking, reasoning, behavior, and emotions. Managing early symptoms is critical to slowing the disease’s progression.”
Given the multifaceted nature of Alzheimer’s, early recognition and intervention are vital. Cognitive issues may initially manifest as short-term memory problems but can evolve into severe cognitive decline, affecting decision-making and emotional regulation.
Preventive Measures: Exercise, Diet, and Mental Health
Experts call for proactive measures to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Dr. Hema Krishna P, Consultant in Neurology and Movement Disorders at Aster CMI Hospital in Bangalore, stressed the importance of maintaining cardiovascular health to prevent cognitive decline. “Regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and engaging in activities that stimulate the brain can help delay or prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s. Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes is also crucial,” she said.
As World Alzheimer’s Day highlights the growing prevalence of dementia, experts urge a shift in workplace culture to prioritize mental and physical well-being. The pressure to constantly hustle may be more harmful than previously thought, posing serious long-term health risks, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Call to Action
With the projected rise in Alzheimer’s cases, it is essential to foster greater awareness about the dangers of stress, poor lifestyle choices, and the importance of brain health. As Dr. Goyal noted, “It’s time to act on Alzheimer’s — both at the personal and societal levels — to prevent future generations from facing an epidemic of cognitive decline.”
World Alzheimer’s Day serves as a reminder for individuals, organizations, and governments to take proactive steps in promoting healthier lifestyles, better work-life balance, and more robust mental health support systems.
