Muscat – Ministry of Health is intensifying efforts to address the growing burden of Alzheimer’s disease, with a major health forum in Muscat recommending the establishment of a specialised national centre for Alzheimer’s care, unified diagnostic and treatment protocols, and a national guide based on scientific evidence.
The Muscat Alzheimer’s Disease Forum, organised by the Higher Institute for Health Specialties (under MoH) in partnership with the Geriatric Society on Thursday, brought together experts in healthcare, nutrition and medical research to advance care for Alzheimer’s patients in the sultanate.
H E Dr Ahmed Salem al Mandhari, Undersecretary for Health Planning and Regulation in the Ministry of Health, stressed the importance of an integrated system linking government, private sector and community organisations to meet the needs of Oman’s ageing population. He noted that Alzheimer’s is not only a medical condition but also a social and economic challenge requiring collective action.
Dr Salha bint Ali al Jadidi, Chair of the forum’s organising committee and chairwoman of the Geriatric Society, described the event as a milestone in building a national framework for Alzheimer’s care and prevention. She said the forum represented a partnership between healthcare, education and social institutions, and marks a starting point for practical change. She highlighted that Al Masarra Hospital was the first to launch an Alzheimer’s treatment guide in Oman, laying the groundwork for future national strategies.
Citing World Health Organization data, Dr Salha said more than 55mn people worldwide are living with Alzheimer’s disease – a figure projected to reach 150mn by 2050.
The disease is the seventh leading cause of death globally and a major contributor to disability and loss of independence among the elderly.
The forum addressed early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s, evidence-based treatment strategies, and international developments in diagnosis, care and prevention. Experts presented research and case studies and discussed the psychological, emotional and economic impact of the disease on patients and caregivers.
Speakers called for greater investment in Alzheimer’s research and the creation of a national database to track and analyse cases across Oman. They also urged enhanced cooperation with international institutions to draw on global expertise and innovative care models.
With populations ageing across the GCC and Indian subcontinent, the forum’s recommendations resonate beyond Oman. Countries including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are facing rising rates of dementia-related illnesses, increasing pressure on healthcare systems.
