New research suggests diabetes and high blood pressure could double risk of early death in people with Alzheimer's
Published 4 November 2008
Diabetes and high blood pressure could decrease length of life in those with Alzheimer's disease, according to new research to be published in the the journal, Neurology.
The American study, investigating how long older people live following a diagnosis for Alzheimer's disease, also found that survival rates were influenced by ethnic background and age of diagnosis.
Dementia, which is caused by diseases such as Alzheimer's, is known to greatly increase risk of death and it is estimated that one in three people over the age of 65 will die with dementia.
Susanne Sorensen, Alzheimer's Society Head of Research, commented,
Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms of 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.
Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website alzheimers.org.uk. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.
For more information please contact the press office on 020 7423 3595 or press@alzheimers.org.uk
Dementia, which is caused by diseases such as Alzheimer's, is known to greatly increase risk of death and it is estimated that one in three people over the age of 65 will die with dementia.
Susanne Sorensen, Alzheimer's Society Head of Research, commented,
Alzheimer's Society funds research to improve care for people today and seeks to find a cure for tomorrow.We already know that high blood pressure and diabetes increase the risk of developing dementia. This research tells us that people with diabetes or high blood pressure also have a shorter life once diagnosed with dementia.
Dementia is not a natural part of ageing; it is caused by diseases of the brain and robs people of their lives. Improving our understanding of the relationship between dementia and other diseases is highly beneficial as this could help us discover ways to reduce risk and improve lives.
Alzheimer's Society
Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms of 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.
Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website alzheimers.org.uk. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.
For more information please contact the press office on 020 7423 3595 or press@alzheimers.org.uk
