Number of People with Dementia Is Set to Double by 2050, According to New Report

An Alzheimer Europe (AE) analysis reviewed 16 recent prevalence studies and listed dated prevalence rates for dementia in Europe, reports Medical Xpress . The review indicated a reduction in the prevalence of dementia among men across all age groups over the past decade when compared to 2008 estimates. Women also experienced a reduction in the prevalence of dementia over the past 10 years, apart from those between 75 and 79 years old. Meanwhile, the European Union (EU27) population with dementia was estimated to be about 7.8 million, and about 9.7 million in countries represented by AE members — a significant reduction from roughly 8.7 million for EU27 and about 10.9 million for the wider European area. Europeans with dementia will almost double by 2050, increasing to more than 14.2 million in EU27 and about 18.8 million in the broader European region. "If people with dementia, their families, and carers are to receive the high-quality and person-centred care they need, governments must ensure their health and care systems are ready to meet this demand, and greater investments in research into the treatment and prevention of dementia are needed," said AE Executive Director Jean Georges.