The reality is worse than expected: researchers report an increase in dementia cases.

A new study has revealed that the risk of developing dementia among Americans aged 55 and older stands at 42%, which is more than double the previously recorded figure. This astonishing statistic highlights the increasing impact of dementia on the aging population worldwide: by 2025, 500,000 new cases are expected, and by 2060, this number is projected to double to 1 million in the U.S.

Dementia, characterized by progressive deterioration in memory, attention, and decision-making abilities, is increasingly associated with the aging population in the U.S., where 58 million people are already over the age of 65.

The research, published in the journal Nature Medicine and conducted by scientists from Johns Hopkins University, NYU Langone, and other institutions, analyzed decades of data gathered from the ARIC-NCS neurocognitive study. This long-term study, initiated in 1987, tracked vascular and cognitive health in nearly 16,000 participants, making it one of the most comprehensive analyses of its kind.

From 1987 to 2020, dementia was diagnosed in 3,252 participants. It was found that women are at a higher risk (48%) compared to men (35%), primarily due to their longer life expectancy. Key factors influencing the risk of developing dementia include genetics, health status, and lifestyle. For instance, carrying the APOE4 gene variant associated with late-onset Alzheimer's disease increases the risk by 45-60%.

Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, along with unhealthy diets, insufficient physical activity, and hearing loss, also significantly contribute to the risk of developing the disease. Age remains the most significant risk factor: the likelihood of developing dementia for individuals who reach 75 years old exceeds 50%. The study emphasizes the need for early intervention, as cognitive decline often begins in middle age.

According to Dr. Josef Koresh, a senior researcher on the study, this growing crisis poses a major challenge for healthcare policymakers. He pointed to preventive measures, such as more effective management of chronic diseases, accessibility of hearing aids, and initiatives to address racial disparities, as crucial steps to reduce dementia cases.

Currently, only one-third of Americans with hearing loss use hearing aids, and this figure could be improved with government support for affordable options. Considering that the U.S. is a country with a relatively high standard of living, the global outlook for similar factors could be much worse.

To tackle the dementia epidemic, healthcare systems must be prepared to meet the growing demand for resources and support, the authors stated. Public initiatives, such as promoting healthy lifestyles, controlling vascular risk factors, and improving mental health, can slow cognitive decline and reduce the overall share of affected individuals.

However, the study also underscores the importance of equitable healthcare policies that consider the unique needs of different population groups, particularly communities disproportionately affected by dementia. With the rising prevalence of the disease, this research serves as a critical call to action.

Policymakers, healthcare professionals, and society as a whole must prioritize prevention, early intervention, and targeted support for vulnerable populations to combat this growing public health issue, the authors believe.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you are experiencing issues, please consult a specialist.