Alzheimer’s Disease and its Implications

September 21, 2018 marked the beginning of Alzheimer’s month for the world. An average of 2 out 3 people globally have little or no understanding of Alzheimer’s disease or its associated dementia.

In 2014, there were 5 million people in the U.S. with Alzheimer’s or dementia. The Centre for Disease Control in the U.S. estimates by 2060 the number will increase to 13.9 million. Among those who are 65 or older, African-Americans have the highest prevalence (13.8%), followed by Hispanics (12.2%) and non-Hispanic whites (10.3%).

In Malaysia, approximately 123,000 people suffer from dementia and this is projected to more than double by 2030 to 261,000 and 590,000 by 2050.

The World Alzheimer Report 2015 has revealed that annual societal and economic cost of dementia is USD818 billion. This is expected to reach a trillion by 2018. It is estimated globally, 46.8 million live with dementia. Every year there are over 9.9 million new cases of dementia worldwide. Of all those with dementia, 58% live in low and middle income countries.

There is therefore a dire need for up-scaling of research investment, treatment, prevention and possibly cure of the disease.

Remaining active physically and mentally helps to delay dementia. So please use your playstation, sodoku and chess to avert its early onset.

Reference

1. World Alzheimer Report, 2015

2. Alzheimer’s disease, dementia cases to double by 2060, Brett Molina (https://www.cnbc.com)