The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates in a recently published report that cases of Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia will double by 2060 in the United States. In Spain, it is expected that in 2050 there will be one million cases of dementia. Globally, the World Health Organization predicts that by 2050 the number of people suffering from dementia will triple. Each year about 10 million new cases are registered worldwide.
The researchers looked at race and ethnicity, which are two “major demographic risk factors” for Alzheimer’s, making this study the first to predict the prevalence of Alzheimer’s based on race and ethnicity.
The experts used population projections obtained from the US Census Bureau to calculate the expected number of older people with Alzheimer’s in 2060.
The study revealed that compared to 2014, when the number of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia was 5 million, by 2060, this number will rise to 13.9 million people in the United States alone. In terms of percentage of population, it represents an increase from 1.6% of the forecast in 2014, to 3.3% of the population by 2060.
“Cases of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias will double to 3.3% by 2060, when an estimated 13.9 million Americans will have the disease,” the study authors write. Additionally, the authors warn that in 2060, 3.2 million Hispanics and 2.2 million African-Americans age 65 and older will live with the condition.
“These estimates,” the authors conclude, “can be used to guide planning and interventions related to population care [Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias] and support for caregivers.”
“Early diagnosis is key to helping individuals and their families cope with memory loss, navigate the healthcare system, and plan their care for the future,” explains Robert R. Redfield, director of the CDC.
“This study shows that as the US population increases, the number of people affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias will increase, especially among minority populations, ” continues Redfield.
The study also draws attention to the well-being and support needs of those caring for people with dementia. An early diagnosis could help people at risk plan for specialized professional care.
“It is important for people who think their daily lives are being affected by memory loss to discuss these concerns with a healthcare provider. An early assessment and diagnosis is key to planning their healthcare needs, including services. and long-term supports as the disease progresses, “says Kevin Matthews of the CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion in Atlanta, USA, and leader of the work that publishes the Alzheimer & Dementia magazine : The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Reference: Racial and ethnic estimates of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias in the United States (2015–2060) in adults aged ≥65 years. Alzheimer & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jalz.2018.06.3063
