Dive Brief:
- Researchers say nearly 47 million people worldwide are living with dementia, an increase of 8 million just since 2009.
- Unless more effective treatments are developed, that number is expected to double in 20 years and continue doubling at the same rate, according to a new report.
- Nearly half with the disease will live in Asia, the report states.
Dive Insight:
Anyone following healthcare trends knows as the worldwide population is aging, dementia is increasing. Treating it has become one of the most vexing issues facing healthcare today, and the demand and cost of services going forward will become an even bigger social issue if treatments don't improve. There is no known cure for dementia.
The Associated Press reports that the cost of treating dementia could reach $1 trillion in just three years. Experts from Alzheimers Disease International, which conducted the study, are calling on governments to pass laws to ensure better access to treatment for dementia patients.