UK in bottom third of countries for dementia drug usage
Published 27 July 2010
The UK ranks 11th out of 14 countries for dementia drug use rates according to a report published by the Department of Health.
The paper 'Extent and causes of international variations in drug usage' by Professor Sir Mike Richards looked at the rates of drug usage per capita for a range of diseases and drug categories in 14 countries across the world. The UK's overall ranking was eighth.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'This report provides a scathing indictment of the huge problems surrounding access to dementia drugs in this country. These are currently the only drug treatments for people with Alzheimer's disease and they can give people more time to plan for the future, play with their grandchildren or simply enjoy a better quality of life.'
'It is outrageous that up to two thirds of people with dementia never even receive a diagnosis and those that do are forced to wait until their condition deteriorates before they can receive drug treatment. We need better diagnosis and more open access to these drugs if we are to even begin to bring ourselves in line with other countries.'
Ruth Sutherland
Acting Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
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Notes to editors:
- To view a full copy of the report visit dh.gov.uk/en/Publicationsandstatistics/Publications/PublicationsPolicyAndGuidance/DH_117962
- For more information about Alzheimer's disease drugs go to alzheimers.org.uk/factsheet/407
- 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
