Dementia must become a world health priority, says World Health Organisation

'Dementia: A Public Health Priority' looks at the impact of dementia across the world. It includes examples of best practise, as well as statistics about dementia from around the globe. The report calls on countries to promote a dementia friendly society, improve attitudes to and understanding of dementia, invest in health and social systems and increase dementia research.

Key statistics from the report include:

• There are 7.7 million new cases of dementia each year, or a new case of dementia somewhere in the world every four seconds
• The worldwide cost of dementia is estimated at US$604 billion (£380 billion) per year
• Only eight of 194 WHO member states have a national dementia plan in place
  

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Two weeks ago, for the first time a British Prime Minister made a personal commitment to drive forward change to transform the lives of 800,000 people with dementia in the UK. This is enormous progress, but it is the beginning of the road. We must now focus our efforts on translating these commitments into better diagnosis and support, increased understanding and advancements in research.'

'Today the World Health Organisation is calling for the global fight against dementia to begin. World leaders everywhere must take steps to conquer the enormous challenge of dementia. If we take action now, we can transform millions of lives.'

Jeremy Hughes
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

Research reference: 'Dementia: A public health priority', published by the World Health Organisation and Alzheimer's Disease International, on Wednesday 11 April 2012.

To download the report please visit alz.co.uk

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten 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