Alzheimer’s and Epilepsy connection – new research

'This research enhances our understanding of the relationship between epilepsy and dementia. People with early-onset Alzheimer's have an increased risk of epileptic seizures and Alzheimer's Society research shows that there are over 15,000 people under the age of 65 with dementia in the UK. These seizures can be extremely distressing for people with dementia and their families.

One million people will develop dementia in the next ten years, but research is drastically underfunded. Much more research is now needed to see if this avenue of research could help improve the lives of people living with this devastating condition.'

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

Reference: Amyloid Beta Induced Neuronal Hyperexcitability Triggers Progressive Epilepsy' by Tibor Harkany et al is published in the Journal of Neuroscience.

Notes to editors

• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 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.
• Dementia costs the UK £17 billion per year, according to Alzheimer's Society research.
• Alzheimer's Society funds cutting-edge health and social research, selected by leading experts, people with dementia and carers. Our research influences practice and transforms lives.
• Dementia is not a natural part of ageing; it is caused by diseases of the brain and robs people of their lives.
• Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to care for people today and to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• For more information contact Press Office 0207 423 3595 press@alzheimers.org.uk