Peru’s health ministry hosted a race to raise dementia awareness
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Peru’s Ministry of Health (Minsa) organized a 5K race and 1.5K walk in Magdalena, a district of Lima, to increase public awareness of dementia.
Over 1500 people of all ages participated in the “Mente Activa 5K” event, which also included health services.
The race coincided with World Alzheimer’s Day, observed annually on September 21, and received support from the Magdalena municipality, the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia’s Impact Salud project, the Regional Council of the College of Psychologists of Peru, and Socios en Salud. Vice Minister of Public Health María Sofía Cuba opened the event and joined participants, including patients and their families, to combat the social stigma surrounding cognitive disorders.
Officials emphasized the importance of early detection and family support to slow the progression of dementia and prevent related mental health issues like depression and anxiety. The Minsa provided data showing a growing need for mental healthcare in Peru. In 2025, the ministry registered 20,071 dementia cases and provided 102,023 related healthcare services. From January to July of 2026, they reported 11,556 new diagnoses and 67,210 services.
Peru’s public health system offers free initial evaluations for patients with health insurance, and refers those with concerning symptoms to specialized mental health centers and hospitals.
