September 23, 2024: On the World Alzheimer’s Day today, Alkem Foundation, the CSR arm of Alkem Laboratories Ltd., organised walkathons to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease in five cities—Mumbai, New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru.
Over 850 senior citizens took part in these walkathons held across locations. Alkem Foundation collaborated with non-profit organisation HelpAge India for these walkathons, which were conducted at Girgaon Chowpatty in Mumbai, Deer Park in New Delhi, Chetla Central Park in Kolkata, Anna Nagar Tower Park in Chennai, and National College Ground in Bengaluru.
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological disorder and the most common form of dementia. It is affecting millions of lives in India, but awareness around it remains low. Through these walkathons, the Alkem Foundation aims to educate people on the importance of early detection and better ways of managing Alzheimer’s disease.
Commenting on the initiative, Madhurima Singh, chairperson of Alkem’s CSR committee, said, “At Alkem, we are deeply committed to initiatives that create a lasting impact, especially in areas where increased awareness and empathy can lead to real, tangible change. We are happy that this is the fourth consecutive year of the Alkem Foundation’s ‘Awarathon’ for Alzheimer’s disease, and every year we have amplified our objectives and broadened our reach, ensuring that more individuals and communities are engaged in this vital cause. We remain steadfast to building a more informed and compassionate society.”
Alzheimer’s disease is often misunderstood as part of ageing, but it is a serious and complex neurological condition that demands greater attention. According to a recent study, 7.4% of adults over the age of 60 in India are living with dementia, amounting to approximately 8.8 million people.
