Worrying rise in deaths from dementia and Alzheimer's worldwide
New and worrying data show that the number of deaths resulting from dementia, including Alzheimer's, is on a sharp rise worldwide. While these diseases were previously ranked 19th on the list of leading causes of death, they have now entered the list of the top five.
According to the latest data for 2023, approximately 2.1 million people died as a result of Alzheimer's and various types of dementia. This represents a very significant increase, with the number of deaths resulting from these diseases having tripled in the recent period.
The increase in the number of patients and deaths is causing great concern among medical and public health experts. Dementia is a collective term for a group of diseases that impair brain function, memory, and thinking ability, and it is prevalent mainly among the elderly population.
The rise in life expectancy in the Western world, including in Israel, poses new challenges for healthcare systems. As the elderly population grows, so does the need for further research, new treatment methods, and family and social support for patients and their families.
In conclusion, the new data serve as a reminder of the importance of awareness regarding these diseases. Health organizations worldwide emphasize that early detection of symptoms and proper management of a healthy lifestyle may help in coping with the consequences of the disease.