A. Menarini, a renowned Italian pharmaceutical company with over 135 years of history, is teaming up with CARiNG Pharmacy Malaysia and ACT4Health Sdn Bhd, a social enterprise spin-off from the University of Malaya, to launch the “Catch Mild Cognitive Impairment Early: Act Now, Remember More” campaign.
This initiative aims to boost awareness about mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and encourage early detection.
MCI is a condition that affects cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and decision-making. Unlike severe cognitive impairments like dementia, individuals with MCI generally maintain their ability to perform daily activities and self-care. However, MCI can lead to challenges such as difficulty finding words, misplacing items, and forgetting important events. Early intervention and lifestyle changes can potentially slow its progression.
Recent research from Malaysia, published in 2023, highlights a concerning trend: patients with chronic diseases face a heightened risk of developing MCI, yet discussions about cognitive health with healthcare providers are infrequent. The study, involving 207 participants, found that only 8% had discussed cognitive impairment with their doctors, and 93.2% did not initiate such conversations. This underscores a critical gap in awareness and proactive management of cognitive health among the elderly.
In response, A. Menarini, CARiNG Pharmacy, and ACT4Health have introduced the Visual Cognitive Assessment Test (VCAT) at selected CARiNG Pharmacy outlets across Malaysia. The VCAT is designed to assess various aspects of cognitive function through visual and cognitive tasks, including pattern recognition, spatial reasoning, memory recall, and decision-making. By completing the VCAT, individuals can gauge their cognitive health status and determine if further professional evaluation is necessary.
Josie Ong, Commercial Director of A. Menarini Singapore Pte Ltd (Malaysia branch), emphasized the significance of this campaign. “Partnering with CARiNG Pharmacy and ACT4Health allows us to address the pressing issue of cognitive health identified through research and community feedback. While some risk factors for MCI, such as age and family history, are beyond our control, making positive changes to modifiable risk factors can help reduce susceptibility. Regular screening and lifestyle adjustments are crucial for early detection and management.”
Bu Min Yee, Senior Training Executive/Pharmacist at CARiNG Pharmacy, added, “Our collaboration with A. Menarini is a step forward in raising awareness and promoting early detection of MCI. At CARiNG Pharmacy, we are committed to empowering the community with the tools they need to take control of their cognitive health. We encourage Malaysians to visit our selected outlets and take advantage of the free VCAT, which takes just 15 minutes.”
Professor Dr. Tan Maw Pin, Geriatric Medicine Consultant and Founder of ACT4Health Sdn Bhd, highlighted the importance of understanding and managing cognitive health. “Statistics from the AGELESS research project show that up to 20% of individuals aged 60 and above experience memory loss, and four out of ten are socially vulnerable. While some memory deficits may be temporary, others could signal early-stage dementia. Regular medical check-ups, including cognitive assessments, are essential for early detection and effective management. Caregivers should be prepared for potential behavioral changes and focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle for themselves and their loved ones.”
The “Catch Mild Cognitive Impairment Early: Act Now, Remember More” campaign seeks to elevate awareness about MCI and encourage early action. The VCAT is available for free at select CARiNG Pharmacy outlets.
For more details on test availability and locations, visit the CARiNG Pharmacy official Facebook page!
