Eli Lilly and Company (India) and Fortis Healthcare marked World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21 with an initiative focused on prioritising brain health, recognising early changes in memory and cognitive health, and seeking timely medical guidance. Former Miss Universe and actor Lara Dutta joined the initiative to raise awareness and encourage open conversations around memory and brain health.

Alzheimer’s disease, the leading cause of dementia, is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that can affect cognition, communication, decision-making, independence and everyday life, placing a significant burden on individuals, families and caregivers.

Dr. Rahul Kapur, Senior Director, Medical, Eli Lilly and Company (India), said, “Alzheimer’s disease places a significant emotional, clinical and societal burden on people living with the condition, their families, caregivers and healthcare systems.”

With the burden of dementia continuing to rise, increasing awareness, recognising early signs, seeking timely medical advice and strengthening care pathways are becoming increasingly important to support people living with Alzheimer’s disease and their families.

Dr. Vinit Banga, Director and HOD – Neurology, Fortis Escorts Faridabad, said, “Alzheimer’s disease is not defined by memory loss alone. It is a complex, progressive neurological disorder in which changes in cognition can gradually affect a person’s ability to communicate, make decisions and function independently. This is why understanding the broader pattern of cognitive and functional changes is important in clinical practice. A careful medical evaluation allows us to look at these changes in context, assess their possible causes and determine the appropriate next steps. Improving awareness of this clinical complexity is essential to ensuring that concerns are recognised and evaluated rather than overlooked.”