Dementia projected to affect 15.3 crore people by 2050

Global dementia cases to triple by 2050, with India facing a significant rise in affected individuals, highlighting urgent healthcare needs.

Some 5.7 crore people had dementia in the world in 2019. This is projected to increase to 15.3 crore in 2050, said Graeme Prior, president of the International Federation of Ageing, at the inauguration of the International Dementia Care Conference (DEMCON’24) on Friday (November 29).

“The smallest percentage changes in the number of projected dementia cases are in the high-income Asia Pacific (USA and Japan) and Western Europe (UK). The largest is in North Africa and the Middle East, and eastern sub-Saharan Africa,” Mr. Prior.

He added that in India, there are about 90 lakh people with dementia, and it is expected to affect 1.7 crore people by 2036.

Dr. Radha S. Murthy, president of Dementia India Alliance, said currently, approximately 88 lakh people in India live with dementia, with an estimated prevalence rate of 7.4% among those over 60. “The treatment or service gap for dementia in India is huge, with only one in 10 people with dementia receiving a diagnosis, treatment, or care. Experts believe that 45% of dementia cases could be delayed or prevented,” Dr. Radha said.

Rajinder K. Dhamija, director, Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences, said, “With an ageing population and increasing prevalence of risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and lifestyle diseases, the number of people affected by dementia is expected to rise significantly.”

He said while early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing dementia, a significant portion of cases remain undiagnosed.

“The government and healthcare providers must work together to implement effective strategies to address the challenges of dementia. This includes investing in research, improving access to care, and raising public awareness,” he further stated.