New research reveals shocking lack of dementia awareness in UK
Published 6 July 2009
Research released by Alzheimer’s Society this Dementia Awareness Week has shown widespread misunderstanding about dementia and the factors that put people at risk.
Results from a new survey show that only half (52%) of the population realise there is no cure for dementia. Approximately a third (32%) mistakenly agreed that dementia was a 'natural part of ageing' and a quarter (26%) thought there was no way to reduce risk.
The survey of 2,004 people also revealed a large degree of confusion about risk factors. The vast majority (72%) thought family history put people at greater risk of dementia despite the fact this is only true in relatively few cases. 45% thought history of mental illness increased risk even though there is no evidence to support this. Well-established risk factors were actually rated much lower with only 35% believing that smoking increased risk and 25% linking obesity with greater risk.
Sarah Day, Head of Public Health at Alzheimer's Society, says,
Darren Jones, a keen runner from Manchester explains why he stays in shape to reduce his risk of dementia,
Notes to editors
The survey of 2,004 people also revealed a large degree of confusion about risk factors. The vast majority (72%) thought family history put people at greater risk of dementia despite the fact this is only true in relatively few cases. 45% thought history of mental illness increased risk even though there is no evidence to support this. Well-established risk factors were actually rated much lower with only 35% believing that smoking increased risk and 25% linking obesity with greater risk.
Sarah Day, Head of Public Health at Alzheimer's Society, says,
'Clearly there is still a shocking lack of understanding when it comes to dementia. The truth is dementia is not a natural part of ageing; it is caused by diseases of the brain and robs people of their lives.
The good news is anyone can reduce their risk by making simple lifestyle choices. Alzheimer's Society's top tips for reducing risk are: stay active; eat healthily; don't smoke; keep a healthy weight and get regular blood pressure & cholesterol checks.'
Darren Jones, a keen runner from Manchester explains why he stays in shape to reduce his risk of dementia,
'A member of my family has been directly affected by dementia so I know the impact the condition can have. By getting regular exercise and keeping a healthy weight I can reduce my own risk, which is really important to me. I find running really helps but there are plenty of other things people can do to stay fit like walking or dancing. So whatever your age - get active and be head strong this Dementia Awareness Week!'- Ends -
Notes to editors
- GfK NOP interviewed 2,004 adults (16+) between 15 - 24 May 2009. Data was weighted to bring it in line with national profiles.
- Dementia Awareness Week runs from 5 - 11 July 2009 and the theme is be headstrong. The aim is to make people aware of how they can take action to reduce their risk of dementia.
- Alzheimer's Society top tips for reducing risk are: stay active, eat healthily, keep a healthy weight, don't smoke and get regular blood pressure & cholesterol checks.
- 1 in 3 people over 65 will die with dementia.
- 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 champions the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them. Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- 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
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336
