Improving diagnosis rates

'A timely diagnosis is essential in order to give people access to care, support and medical treatments that can make a huge difference to their quality of life. We must act now to improve these dismal diagnosis rates.

'We would welcome a debate on the value of screening and any other approaches that could help more people with dementia get an early diagnosis.

'Anyone worried that they may be developing dementia should seek advice from their doctor. For more information please go to alzheimers.org.uk/memoryworry'

Prof Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

- Ends -

Notes to editors:

• 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

Press Office 0207 423 3595 Email: press@alzheimers.org.uk