Dementia cases expected to double
Currently, about 7 million U.S. adults live with dementia. According to a recent study, the annual number of people diagnosed with dementia in the U.S. will double by the year 2060, leading to one million new cases of dementia per year.
The researchers estimate a 42% lifetime risk of developing dementia. Women, African Americans and those carrying the APOE4 gene are at an increased risk. In fact, dementia cases are expected to triple among African Americans due to their higher rates of hypertension and diabetes.
This large increase in people living with dementia presents a significant public health challenge. Researchers pointed out that reducing and addressing comorbidities, such as poor cardiovascular health and hearing loss, is important for reducing the risk of dementia.
“People can also reduce their risk of developing dementia by staying physically active and maintaining involvement in social activities,“ says Dr. Kevin Koo, a family medicine physician at Advocate Health Care. “It’s important to stay engaged with your community, family and the world in general.”
Dr. Koo says the expected increase may be due to increases in longevity and the fact that the large group of Baby Boomers will be reaching older age in this time frame. The largest increase in people living with dementia is expected to be in people ages 75 and older.
To help reduce your risk of dementia, manage chronic health conditions with the help of your primary care provider.
Want to learn more about your risk for diabetes? Take a free online quiz.
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About the Author
Jo Linsley, a health enews contributor, is a freelance copywriter at Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care. With decades of experience in writing and editing, she continues to aspire to concise and inspiring writing. She also enjoys knitting and singing as creative outlets and for their meditative qualities.
