WASHINGTON, D.C. — The latest report on Alzheimer’s disease urges the World Health Organization to declare dementia a health priority and recommends that major governments increase their investments in research, the Associated Press reported Monday.
The previous report in 2005 estimated 31 million people worldwide would suffer from the incurable disease by 2010. The World Alzheimer Report just released predicts 35.6 million will be affected. Earlier studies didn’t account for the increased life spans in developing nations, AP reported. One in eight people 65 and older, and nearly one in two people over 85 are affected, the report said.
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Although age is undoubtedly the leading cause, obesity, high cholesterol and diabetes are being linked to Alzheimer’s — all increasing health problems in developing countries, the report stated.
In some countries, “weak brain” or “tired brain,” as the disease is coined, is thought to be a normal part of the aging process. In parts of India and Britain, the report found that dementia is not discussed. According to the report, raising awareness in these countries is critical.
A substance called beta-amyloid, which builds up in patients’ brains is being studied as a starting point to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s, stated Dr. William Thies of the U.S. Alzheimer’s Association. Currently, doctors can provide medications to alleviate symptoms, but the exact causes of the disease are unknown, the AP reported.
Doctors need to understand the causes if they are to slow if not stop the disease that robs people of their memories, their ability to care for themselves, and eventually, their lives. Thies’ group is advocating for an increase in U.S. research spending from just over $400 million to about $1 billion.
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