Experts Debate AI's Impact on Brain Health and Neurological Diseases

As the world celebrated World Brain Day, neurologists in Kolkata, India engaged in a debate about the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving brain health and preventing neurological diseases.

Some experts argued that the prospect of using AI tools to help people learn new things and keep their neurons engaged could lead to better brain health and potentially prevent the onset of depression and dementia. However, others expressed concerns that an over-reliance on AI could be counterproductive and encourage lazy thinking.

"The brain is the only organ that defines who we are -- our thoughts, memories, and choices," said CMRI Hospital neurologist Deep Das. "While AI can mimic intelligence, it cannot replicate the human mind's empathy, imagination, or resilience. We need to be cautious about where this technology will lead us."

On the other hand, Charnock Hospital neurologist Rohit Mishra stated that using AI or learning anything new can keep the brain's neural circuits active and prevent neurodegenerative diseases. "The idea is to keep the brain working in a healthy, positive manner. Learning is a good way of doing that since it creates new connections between neurons, strengthens the existing ones, and effectively reorganizes and optimizes the brain's neural pathways."

Experts also emphasized the importance of traditional brain-stimulating activities, such as playing chess, solving sudoku puzzles, and engaging in physical games like tennis. Hrishikesh Kumar, head of neurology at the Institute of Neurosciences Kolkata, said, "Any new reception nourishes neurons and boosts the brain's electrical circuit."

The neurologists also highlighted the need for people of all ages to follow the "golden five rules" for brain health: eating mindfully, exercising regularly, sleeping well, learning something new, and maintaining social connections.