Dementia cases set to triple by 2050

Bart De Strooper, the director of the UK Dementia Research Institute, at University College London, who was not part of the study.In an interview with MNT, he warned that the risk factors studied are only part of the bigger picture, explaining that “The genetic makeup of an individual is at least as great a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease as lifestyle.”“Whilst stacking the odds in your favor with lifestyle choices is advisable,” he continued, “sadly, we know millions of individuals will still go on to develop dementia, and that’s why we urgently need more discovery research that will bolster the race to cures.”Until now, estimates of dementia cases in individual countries had not been published. […] Until we get a firm dementia plan from the government, with dementia specialists at its core, this will continue to be one of the greatest health challenges of our time.”Dr. Nichols told MNT that “Understanding the burden of disease both globally and at the country level is critical for policy makers and decision makers to understand the magnitude of the problem and to appropriately plan for future increases.”“We hope that our country-specific estimates of future dementia prevalence can be used by governments to prepare adequately for the increase in the supports and services that will be needed by individuals with dementia and their caregivers.” – Emma NicholsEvans, echoing these thoughts, commented that “Dementia doesn’t just affect individuals, it can devastate whole families and networks of friends and loved ones.”“The heartbreaking personal cost of dementia goes hand in hand with huge economic and societal impacts, strengthening the case to governments across the world to do more to protect lives now and in the future.”“There is robust evidence that what’s good for the heart is also good for the brain,” explained Evans.“Not smoking, only drinking within the recommended limits, staying mentally and physically active, eating a balanced diet, and keeping blood pressure and cholesterol levels in check can all help keep our brains healthy as we age.”“With many thinking about new year resolutions,” she continued, “I would urge people to consider some simple steps we can all take to stay brain healthy.