The report “Dementia: a public health priority” has been jointly
developed by WHO and Alzheimer's Disease International. The purpose of
this report is to raise awareness of dementia as a public health
priority, to articulate a public health approach and to advocate for
action at international and national levels.
Dementia is a syndrome that affects memory, thinking, behaviour
and ability to perform everyday activities. The number of people living
with dementia worldwide is currently estimated at 35.6 million. This
number will double by 2030 and more than triple by 2050. Dementia is
overwhelming not only for the people who have it, but also for their
caregivers and families. There is lack of awareness and understanding of
dementia in most countries, resulting in stigmatization, barriers to
diagnosis and care, and impacting caregivers, families and societies
physically, psychologically and economically.
The report is expected to facilitate governments, policy-makers,
and other stakeholders to address the impact of dementia as an
increasing threat to global health. It is hoped that the report will
promote dementia as a public health and social care priority worldwide.
Download the report at the web address given below.