Dementia is an escalating global mental health issue, characterized by a decline in thinking, memory, and reasoning abilities due to the gradual destruction of brain cells, according to the World Health Organization.
By 2050, the number of people suffering from dementia is projected to hit around 139 million, with the population of those aged 65 and older expected to double to 2.1 billion, as highlighted by the WHO. Currently, over 55 million people globally are dealing with dementia.
Dementia Risks:
Dementia is the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and causes significant disability and dependence among older adults, with nearly 10 million new cases each year.
Although age is the primary risk factor for dementia, other significant but potentially modifiable risk factors outlined in
The Lancet Commission’s 2020 report include:
- Limited education
- High blood pressure
- Hearing loss
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Depression
- Physical inactivity
- Diabetes
- Low social interaction
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Traumatic brain injury
- Air pollution
Addressing these factors through lifestyle changes could potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia.
