Dementia is doubling. And women are at the forefront
Amman2 min read
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A recent international study projected that the number of new dementia cases worldwide will rise to 24.7 million annually by 2050, compared to about 11.4 million cases in 2023, highlighting the importance of strengthening prevention and care, especially for women, who record higher incidence rates and provide the majority of patient care.
The study was published in the journal "JAMA Neurology" on October 12, and was based on data from more than 38,000 people across 22 studies covering 18 countries and territories on six continents.
Estimates indicate that the expected increase is linked to population growth and rising life expectancy, and does not necessarily mean that the risk of infection has doubled for every individual.
Why are women more affected?
The study showed that the incidence rate of dementia is about 10.6 new cases per year per 1,000 women, compared to 8.6 cases per 1,000 men, even after accounting for age differences.
Part of this disparity is linked to women's higher life expectancy, while scientists are studying other potential factors, including biological and hormonal influences, and educational and social conditions that may affect brain health in the long term.
The causes of this disparity still require further research, and aging does not necessarily mean developing dementia.
Prevention starts early
Paying attention to brain health can help reduce the risk of dementia by controlling blood pressure and diabetes, engaging in physical activity, avoiding smoking, maintaining social connections, and paying attention to hearing problems.
Although these measures do not prevent all cases, they represent important steps to support health as one ages.
Women and the role of caregiving
In addition to their higher incidence rates, women provide about 70 percent of the care time dedicated to people with dementia worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
With the number of cases expected to increase over the coming decades, the importance of developing diagnostic, treatment, and care services, and providing support to families and caregivers, becomes clear, helping to improve the quality of life for patients and their families.
The projections confirm that preparing for the future is not limited to addressing the increase in cases, but also includes strengthening prevention, raising awareness, and providing better care that allows patients and their families to receive the support they need.
