Education Corner

Is Alzheimer’s disease caused by aging? No. Alzheimer’s disease is not simply caused by aging. While age is the greatest risk factor, Alzheimer’s is actually a specific brain disorder—distinct from normal aging. The true cause lies in brain degeneration, triggered by the formation of abnormal amyloid plaques and tangled nerve fibers (tau protein tangles) in the brain. Amyloid plaques accumulate between brain cells, disrupting neural communication and causing inflammation, which damages surrounding neurons. Meanwhile, tau tangles destroy the microtubule structure inside neurons, blocking nutrient transport, leading to cellular collapse and death.   Are the “Three Highs” (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol) related to Alzheimer’s disease? Yes — the “Three Highs” do increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.Studies show that people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s. Hypertension in particular can damage cerebral blood vessels, reduce brain blood flow, and cause microinfarctions and white matter lesions, which over time impair memory and thinking functions. Moreover, high blood sugar and insulin resistance can trigger chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular injury in the brain. Thus, metabolic conditions like the “Three Highs” are indeed key risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. Other lifestyle factors—such as obesity, unhealthy diets (high in oil, salt, and sugar), mental inactivity, and lack of exercise—can further increase the likelihood of developing the condition.   Want to prevent Alzheimer’s early? In addition to keeping your brain active, there are screening options available. Here are two recommended examinations: Early Alzheimer’s Screening – HK$880A simple blood test to detect biomarkers related to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and assess your risk level.Learn more here: https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/early_alzheimer_screening “Three Highs” & Diabetes Comprehensive Check – Promotional price HK$330 with code HC330A complete blood test covering lipid levels, blood sugar, and urinary health to help you detect metabolic conditions early.Learn more here: https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/easycheck   References:  Alzheimer Society of Canada: 13 Risk Factors of Dementia National Institutes of Health (NIH): Alzheimer’s Disease – A Brief Overview

People often say that playing mahjong can help prevent dementia — but is that really true? Let’s find out below!   Does dementia mean total memory loss once it starts? In fact, dementia progresses through different stages and can last up to 10 years from early to late stage. In the beginning, it mainly involves mild memory decline, but in later stages, it gradually affects daily functioning, and patients may eventually need full-time care.   Early-stage symptoms: Memory decline and hesitation in making decisions. Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities. Increased irritability or moodiness. Difficulty expressing oneself smoothly. Getting off at the wrong bus stop or getting lost in unfamiliar areas.   Middle-stage symptoms: Confusion or forgetting family members’ names; some may lose sense of time. Reading and communication abilities further decline. Getting lost even in familiar neighborhood areas. Possible incontinence or forgetting that they’ve already eaten. Some may experience delusions—most commonly believing someone has stolen their money.   Late-stage symptoms: Complete dependence on others for mobility and eating; near-total loss of self-care ability. Severe memory loss, possibly forgetting their own name.   How can you prevent yourself or elderly family members from developing dementia? And is playing mahjong truly effective? Mahjong is a mentally demanding game that requires memory, calculation, risk assessment, and observation of opponents’ reactions. These high-level cognitive tasks help stimulate brain activity, enhance memory, focus, and reasoning. Studies show that people who regularly play mahjong have a lower risk of dementia on average—but the results are even better when paired with regular physical exercise.   Besides mahjong, other key preventive methods include: Regular exercise:Aerobic activities and strength training such as brisk walking, jogging, or practicing tai chi can reduce the risk of falls and maintain brain health.Research suggests that people with “moderate or above” levels of physical activity have 20–30% lower risk of developing dementia compared to sedentary individuals. Brain training:Engaging in activities like reading, writing, crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, mahjong, Chinese chess, and Go can help keep the mind active.Combining these with social activities, such as volunteering or attending interest classes to learn new things, can further strengthen cognitive health.   If you suspect you or an elderly family member may have dementia, seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Family members should also keep a record of the symptoms to help doctors make an accurate diagnosis and plan daily care.   What tests can be done if dementia is suspected? Since many elderly people are reluctant to undergo medical tests, here’s a simple and non-invasive option: https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/ariaewmh No blood sample is required — the test only takes about 15 minutes, costs HK$750, and can assess the risk of cognitive disorders with an accuracy of up to 94%.   For a more comprehensive package that includes stroke and eye health screening, you can choose the HK$1,350 option here:https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/ariafullop   References:  1. Taiwan Alzheimer's Disease Association: Understanding Dementia 2. World Health Organization: Dementia 3. Hong Kong Housing Society: CUHK Professor’s Brain-Boosting Tips to Help Prevent Cognitive Impairment 4. Dartigues JF, Foubert-Samier A, Le Goff M, et al. Playing board games, cognitive decline and dementia: a French population-based cohort study 5. Cecilia Bahou, Medical News Today : How long does dementia last? Duration and life expectancy

People often say, “It’s normal for the elderly to be forgetful.” But does forgetfulness really mean someone has dementia? Let’s take a closer look.   What’s the difference between normal aging and dementia? First, it’s important to understand why older adults may become forgetful. Forgetfulness (decline in memory) is often caused by normal aging, stress, lack of sleep, side effects of medication, or other reversible conditions. Dementia, however, is not just forgetfulness—it refers to a broader decline in cognitive abilities caused by brain degeneration. Many people mistakenly assume forgetfulness equals dementia and therefore don’t seek medical help in time.   According to the Hong Kong Alzheimer’s Disease Association, the behaviors of older adults experiencing normal aging and those with dementia are quite different: Memory differences Normal aging: Occasionally forgets events but later recalls them; forgetfulness does not significantly affect daily life. Dementia: Frequently forgets recent events, repeatedly asks the same questions, forgets important life moments, and cannot recall them even when reminded—causing disruption to daily routines. Judgment and execution ability Normal aging: Slower in handling complex tasks but can still carry out everyday activities (like cooking) independently; may lose focus occasionally but can regain it. Dementia: Even simple decisions become difficult (e.g., unable to count money, forgetting steps), may get lost in familiar places, and need assistance with simple tasks. Emotional and personality changes Normal aging: May tire easily or feel low mood but is aware of their forgetfulness. Social interests remain unchanged and personality is mostly stable. Dementia: Becomes irritable or suspicious (e.g., accuses others of stealing), loses interest in previously enjoyed activities, becomes apathetic or withdrawn—changes that family members can easily notice. Language and orientation Normal aging: Occasionally forgets words but communication remains smooth; awareness of time and place is normal. Dementia: Has language difficulties, forgets the date, and becomes confused about seasons.   If family members are worried that an elderly person may not just be forgetful but actually showing signs of dementia, they should arrange a medical assessment as soon as possible. Keeping a record of observed behaviors can also help doctors conduct a more thorough evaluation. The Human Health Eshop offers an Early Alzheimer’s Screening that helps detect the condition in advance:https://mall.humanhealth.com.hk/products/early_alzheimer_screening The early Alzheimer’s screening currently costs HK$880. Detecting it in its early stages allows treatment and lifestyle adjustments to slow disease progression—so don’t miss the golden window for intervention.   References:  Hong Kong Alzheimer’s Disease Association: What is Dementia? Jockey Club Centre for Positive Ageing : About Dementia

Medication-induced weight gain differs from typical obesity in key ways. Weight often rises noticeably within weeks to months, unlike past patterns, even without major changes in diet or exercise. It may include visible swelling (e.g., ankles, face, tight rings on fingers), and weight can partially reverse after stopping or adjusting the drug.   When to Suspect Medication as the Cause Suspect drugs if weight climbs soon after starting a new one, clothes feel tighter despite steady habits, or gain coincides with edema, increased appetite, or cravings for high-calorie foods.   Can You Stop Medications on Your Own? Never stop or reduce doses yourself, especially for cardiovascular, diabetes, psychiatric, epilepsy, or steroid drugs. Abrupt changes can worsen the original condition or pose life-threatening risks. Instead, discuss alternatives, lower doses, or other options with your doctor promptly.   Strategies to Minimize Medication-Related Weight Gain Diet tips: Watch portions: Keep favorite foods but serve smaller amounts. Prioritize high-fiber, high-protein, low-refined-sugar options for better fullness. Cut sugary drinks, alcohol, and salty/fatty snacks.   Activity tips: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly (brisk walking, cycling, swimming). If fatigue hits, split into short sessions (e.g., 3x10-15 minutes daily). Lifestyle habits: Stick to consistent sleep schedules—poor sleep disrupts hunger hormones. Track weight and waist circumference regularly to catch changes early.   Medication side effects can harm treatment effectiveness and quality of life. If unexplained weight gain occurs, consult your doctor immediately for evaluation and adjustments to prevent health decline.

What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, impacting about 7-10% of women. ​ Why Does PCOS Often Lead to Obesity? Hormonal imbalance: Elevated male hormones (androgens) alter fat storage, causing fat to accumulate primarily in the abdomen. Blood sugar issues: Poor insulin response keeps blood sugar high, promoting more fat storage. Vicious cycle: Obesity worsens hormonal disruption, creating a loop of "more weight gain leads to poorer ovulation, and poor ovulation leads to more weight gain."Research shows about 70% of patients are overweight, especially with central "apple-shaped" obesity.   Unique Features of PCOS-Related Obesity Abdominal focus: Fat builds up mainly around the belly and waist, not hips or thighs. Hard to lose, easy to gain: Weight resists diet control; it rebounds quickly with any lapse. Accompanying symptoms: Infrequent or absent periods. Excess hair growth (face, chest, abdomen), acne. Hair thinning or oily scalp. Infertility or difficulty conceiving.​   How to Effectively Manage PCOS-Related Obesity Key to weight loss: Losing 5-8% of body weight improves ovulation in 70% of cases and boosts insulin sensitivity. Diet adjustments: Low-GI foods (brown rice, oats, beans, vegetables) to stabilize blood sugar. High protein (chicken breast, fish, eggs, tofu) for better satiety. Cut refined sugars and processed foods. Exercise plan: 150 minutes of cardio weekly (brisk walking, swimming). Strength training 2-3 times/week, focusing on core muscles. Medications: Doctors may prescribe metformin for insulin resistance or oral contraceptives for hormone regulation.   How to Prevent and Detect PCOS Early High-risk screening: Periods absent for 3 months. Post-puberty hirsutism, acne, or obesity. Stubborn abdominal fat plus family diabetes history. Regular checks: Ovarian ultrasound and blood tests for hormones and glucose.​   Weight Management Tips for Women with PCOS Avoid extreme dieting, which disrupts hormones and causes binge rebounds. Eat regularly: 3 main meals + 2 snacks to stabilize blood sugar and curb hunger. Get enough sleep, as poor sleep worsens insulin resistance.   PCOS can seriously impact women's weight and fertility. If you notice irregular periods or unexplained obesity, seek medical evaluation promptly for thorough assessment and early treatment to prevent long-term complications.

Depression and anxiety can significantly affect eating habits and lifestyle patterns, often leading to noticeable weight gain and creating a vicious cycle between mood and body weight.   Why Do Emotional Disorders Often Lead to Weight Gain? Emotional eating: During low moods, people tend to crave sweet, oily, or snack foods for temporary comfort. Impaired appetite regulation: The brain’s response to hunger and fullness weakens, making overeating more likely. Reduced activity: Low motivation and fatigue lead to less movement, exercise, and daily activity. Sleep problems: Both insomnia and oversleeping disrupt appetite hormones, increasing hunger and cravings.   How Does Emotion-Related Obesity Typically Present? Rapid weight gain: Significant increase over several weeks or months, unusual compared to past patterns. Food preference changes: Strong cravings for high-calorie “comfort foods” like chocolate, chips, or ice cream. Loss of control while eating: Feeling unable to stop eating despite knowing it’s unhealthy, often followed by guilt. Emotional symptoms: Persistent sadness, anxiety, insomnia, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal.   What Other Health Risks Are Involved? Vicious emotional cycle: Weight gain leads to lower self-esteem, which worsens mood and triggers more eating. Metabolic problems: Chronic stress disturbs blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure control. Physical discomfort: Persistent fatigue, muscle aches, and lowered immunity increasing illness risk. Long-term impact: Higher risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.   How to Effectively Manage Emotion-Related Obesity Professional evaluation: Psychiatrists may recommend antidepressant medication or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Emotional stabilization is key before sustainable weight loss. Dietary management: Eat regular meals to prevent emotional eating when hungry. Prepare healthy snacks—like nuts, fruits, or yogurt—instead of sugary or fatty foods. Increase intake of Omega-3 fatty acids (from salmon, flaxseeds, etc.) to support emotional stability. Gradual exercise: Start with 10–15 minutes of walking daily, increasing to 150 minutes per week. Choose enjoyable activities (such as yoga or dancing) to boost mood while burning calories.   How to Prevent Emotional Disorders from Causing Obesity Early warning signs: Persistent low mood lasting more than two weeks. Episodes of binge eating or withdrawing from social life. A sudden weight increase of 3–5 kg in a short period. Regular screening: Include mental health assessment in annual check-ups. Healthy habits: Ensure sufficient sleep, regular exercise, balanced diet, and positive social interaction.   Depression and anxiety can greatly affect weight control. If you experience ongoing low mood or unexplained weight gain, seek professional help early for assessment and treatment to protect both your mental and physical health.