New research suggests seizures are more common in people with Alzheimer’s
Published 13 July 2010
People with Alzheimer's are more than six times more likely to have seizures than people without the disease according to new research presented at the International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease.
Scientists used the anonymised electronic medical records of 14,838 people with Alzheimer's disease and the same number of people without the disease from nearly 400 UK PCTs. They followed them for between 2.3 and 3.4 years. In the Alzheimer's group there was an incidence rate of 9.1 per 1,000 people per year. This is 6.4 times higher than the 1.4 per 1,000 per year recorded in the non-Alzheimer's group.
Alzheimer's Society comment:'People with dementia can have a higher risk of developing other health problems. This, as this large and robust UK study suggests, could include seizures. By taking these additional risks into account, we can ensure that the appropriate care and support is being provided.'
'One in three people will die with dementia. Everyday we are moving closer to understanding the causes of dementia and why people experience the difficulties they do. However, dementia research is seriously underfunded. We need more investment now if we are to advance our knowledge further.'
Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
Research reference: Alzheimer's disease is associated with increased incidence of seizures among patients in the United Kingdom, 1988-2009. Nicole Baker et al.
Notes to editors:- For spokespeople and case studies contact the Alzheimer's Society press office on 0207 423 3595.
- ICAD is the world's leading forum on dementia research. Run by Alzheimer's Association, it will this year be taking place in Hawaii from Sunday 11 July to Thursday 15 July.
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. 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 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
