Malawian scientist Elias Chipofya has raised concerns that limited public awareness of Alzheimer’s disease is causing critical delays in diagnosis and treatment, while stifling the development of essential support services nationwide.

Speaking to YFM, Chipofya emphasized that Malawi currently lacks robust data on the prevalence of Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

He noted that this gap is worsening risks and burdens for affected individuals, particularly those living with HIV.

The researcher, who is conducting studies on the disease as part of his PhD in South Africa, urged the government and stakeholders to prioritize the growing challenge by funding extensive research, expanding the knowledge base, and training specialized healthcare professionals.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, is a progressive brain condition that gradually impairs memory, cognitive function, and behaviour, severely limiting a person’s ability to perform daily tasks.