Overview and Regional Context of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Middle East and North Africa Region

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) poses a significant global health challenge, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) due to unique socio-economic, cultural, and environmental factors. While AD is prevalent worldwide, MENA faces distinct challenges such as rapid urbanization, aging populations, and healthcare disparities, which exacerbate the disease's impact. Both non-modifiable factors like genetics and modifiable factors, including lifestyle and environmental exposures influence AD's prevalence and severity across the region. The economic burden of AD significantly impacts family and societal structures. The need for enhanced research, early diagnosis, culturally tailored healthcare interventions, and robust public health policies to manage and mitigate AD in MENA is apparent. Applying lessons from international contexts to the MENA region and advocating for a multi-faceted approach that integrates medical, social, and policy efforts should help combat this growing health crisis effectively. This comprehensive review assesses the epidemiology, risk factors, and barriers to optimal care for AD across the MENA region, revealing a critical need for region-specific public health strategies.