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Saiyaara explores the story of a 22-year-old woman diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. The movie has sparked an important conversation around the early onset of this disease.
Aneet Padda’s character in Saiyaara is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
The new Bollywood sensation Saiyaara is doing more than breaking box office records. The film, led by newcomer Aneet Padda and Ahaan Panday, follows the heartbreaking journey of a 22-year-old woman diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, a form of dementia rarely seen in young people. With its emotionally rich storytelling and bold subject choice, Saiyaara has not only touched audiences deeply but also triggered real-world questions: Can Alzheimer’s really affect people in their twenties?
What Is Early-Onset Alzheimer’s?
While Alzheimer’s disease is typically associated with individuals over the age of 65, a rarer form known as early-onset or younger-onset Alzheimer’s can develop decades earlier. According to Johns Hopkins University, this condition has been diagnosed in people as young as their 30s and, in extremely rare cases, even in their 20s.
There are two primary forms:
- Common early-onset Alzheimer’s mimics the progression of the age-related version and generally appears in the 40s or 50s.
- Familial Alzheimer’s Disease (FAD), a much rarer, inherited version linked to specific genetic mutations. Individuals with FAD can begin showing symptoms as early as their late 20s or early 30s.
The Science Behind Alzheimer’s Disease
The exact triggers for Alzheimer’s remain elusive, but researchers point to the accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain – specifically beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles. These interfere with normal brain function, causing irreversible damage to areas responsible for memory, speech, and judgment.
While these protein build-ups can occur naturally with age, those with Alzheimer’s experience them in higher volumes and at a much earlier stage. Genetics, environmental exposure, and lifestyle choices are all believed to influence the onset and severity of the disease.
Recognising The Early Warning Signs Of Alzheimer’s Disease
Early-onset Alzheimer’s often mirrors the symptoms of its later-onset counterpart. These include:
- Persistent memory lapses
- Difficulty concentrating or solving problems
- Trouble with everyday tasks
- Language difficulties
- Sudden shifts in mood or personality
- Disorientation and poor coordination
In many cases, it’s family or close friends who spot these signs before the individual does. Because early-onset Alzheimer’s is so uncommon, especially in young adults, symptoms may be dismissed or misdiagnosed.
Can You Really Get Alzheimer’s In Your 20s?
Though almost unheard of, there have been documented instances of Alzheimer’s in people under 30. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease reported the case of a 19-year-old in China diagnosed with the condition. Such occurrences are extremely rare and often linked to inherited genetic mutations.
Who Faces The Highest Risk Of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing early-onset Alzheimer’s, including:
- A strong family history of dementia
- Genetic mutations (such as in the APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2 genes)
- Past head trauma
- Chronic conditions like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
How Can Alzheimer’s Disease Be Treated?
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, but medical advancements have led to medications that may help manage symptoms or slow the disease’s progression – particularly if diagnosed early. Maintaining cardiovascular health, staying mentally and socially active, and prioritising sleep and nutrition may all contribute to reducing the risk or delaying the onset.
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Delhi, India, India
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