Advisor to the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Supradip Chakma. File Photo

DHAKA, May 27, 2025 (BSS) – Advisor to the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Supradip Chakma today urged all to build awareness among people to prevent dementia.
 
“Dementia is a neurological condition, rather than a mental illness. Dementia can affect people of all ages but is more commonly observed in older individuals. Compassion and supportive behavior toward those affected can significantly improve their quality of life. We must raise awareness among people about it,” the adviser said.

He was addressing a seminar titled "Dementia: Prevalence and Precaution", held today at the seminar hall of the Chittagong Hill Tracts Complex on Bailey Road in the capital, said a ministry press release. 

The event also included a certificate distribution ceremony for training participants.

General Secretary of the Alzheimer’s Society Azizul Haque presented the keynote paper at the seminar. 

Speakers at the seminar noted that Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. 

There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types. Symptoms may include memory loss, difficulty in organizing thoughts, problems with communication, and reduced ability to understand or process information.

According to a report of World Health Organization (WHO)- shared at the seminar, over 55 million people worldwide are currently living with dementia. As life expectancy rises, the number of dementia cases is increasing in Bangladesh as well, potentially posing future social and economic challenges.
 
It is estimated that there are currently around 1.1 million dementia patients in the country.

Since there is no specific treatment for dementia, the speakers stressed the need for better caregiving practices, early prevention strategies, and increased public awareness to build a more informed and supportive society for the dementia-affected people.

The speakers of the event include - Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs ministry’s Additional Secretary Dr. Rashida Ferdous, Md. Saidur Rahman Khan, Department of Social Services Director General Saidur Rahman and International Health Division’s Senior Associate Halida Hanum Akhter, the  release said.