Terry Pratchett: I have Alzheimers

Mr Pratchett's decision to discuss his diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is a brave one. It is all the more encouraging because of his resolve to remain so positive in the face of what he calls an 'embuggerance'.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, a progressive condition affecting 700,000 people in the UK and millions more carers. This includes 15,000 younger people with dementia who like Mr Pratchett are diagnosed before they are 65.

Mr Pratchett's commitment to continue working reflects the experiences of many people, who in the earliest stages of dementia will work and socialise with the support of loved ones and carers.

The Alzheimer's Society is available to support Mr Pratchett and families affected by dementia across the country, by providing information and support and with a research programme into the care, cause and cure for the condition.

Neil Hunt, Chief executive Alzheimer's Society

Note to editors:

• Alzheimer's Society spokespeople are available for comment.
• 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 6 people over 80 have dementia.
• The Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms dementia and their carers. It provides information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care. It funds medical and scientific research and campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of dementia.
• The Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and this website http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/

Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.

For more information contact:

Jessica Mangold, press officer 0207 423 3594

Jessica Mangold
Press Officer Alzheimer's Society,
Central Office, Devon House,
58 St Katharine's Way,
London, E1W 1JX