David Pérez, neurologist: “Nighttime regeneration protects us against neurodegenerative diseases”

Dr. David Pérez is a leading figure in the field of neurology. With more than 20 years of clinical experience treating complex neurological disorders, he trained in this area of medicine at Madrid’s 12 de Octubre Hospital and at the Neurology Department of Indiana University in the United States.

He is currently a professor of neurology at the School of Medicine of the Complutense University of Madrid, president of the Madrid Association of Neurology, and director of the neurology departments at both La Luz Hospital and 12 de Octubre.

In addition, he has contributed to more than a dozen books on the subject, published around one hundred scientific articles in medical journals, and conducts research in several areas related to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

On March 18, the neurologist will publish his new book, ‘Cuida tu salud cerebral’ (Take Care of Your Brain Health), which he describes as a guide to aging without cognitive decline.

At a time when Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are among the public’s greatest concerns, David Pérez sheds light on the topic by explaining how the brain works and what distinguishes normal aging from neurodegenerative disorders.

He also dispels common myths and invites readers to better understand the processes that support our memory, attention, and identity.

Drawing on scientific findings and clinical examples, Dr. Pérez shows how factors such as hypertension, diet, physical exercise, sleep quality, stress, pollution, and social isolation directly affect cognitive performance.

He also examines the role of genetics and environment, advances in early diagnosis, and the most effective strategies for strengthening cognitive reserve throughout life. In addition, he explains why certain habits can have a decisive impact on the future of our brain health.

The result is an accessible yet rigorous guide that translates scientific knowledge into practical and realistic actions. Take Care of Your Brain Health helps readers understand what happens in the brain and design a personal prevention plan based on evidence, with specific recommendations for every stage of life: “A reminder that it is never too early or too late to protect the organ that defines us: the mind.”

The power of sleep: rest to rejuvenate your mind

“It is remarkable how this ancient tradition of Australian Aboriginal peoples resonates with what neuroscience now tells us about the essential role of sleep in brain health,” says Pérez. “Today we know that during sleep, especially in deep stages and REM sleep, the brain consolidates memory, processes emotions, and removes accumulated toxins. This nightly regeneration not only preserves cognitive functions, but also protects against neurodegenerative diseases,” he adds.

Dr. Alberto Galindo, dean of the School of Medicine at the Complutense University of Madrid, notes that cognitive decline and dementia are becoming a serious public health issue. “This extraordinary book describes the many factors responsible and shows that many of them are modifiable, as well as the measures that exist to prevent them.”

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