WHO says nearly half of dementia cases are preventable
The World Health Organisation has revealed that up to 45% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by addressing lifestyle and environmental risks. The organisation released updated guidelines to help countries reduce dementia rates through prevention and better healthcare. Devora Kestel and Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus of the WHO highlighted the significant impact of dementia on individuals, families, and economies. Dementia remains a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with no current cure.
Highlights
- The WHO states that nearly 45% of dementia risks are linked to modifiable factors like smoking, alcohol use, physical inactivity, and air pollution.
- Over 57 million people worldwide currently live with dementia, with almost 10 million new cases diagnosed each year.
- Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, making up 60–70% of dementia cases.
- Updated WHO guidelines recommend cognitive stimulation, better management of conditions like hypertension and diabetes, and stronger integration of brain health services.
- Dementia costs the global economy an estimated $1.3 trillion annually, with about half of that amount coming from unpaid care by relatives and friends.
