A new study reveals that dementia cases in the US could double by 2060, affecting millions more than previously estimated.
New York: Here’s some tough news to digest — your chances of getting dementia are higher than we thought. A recent study from NYU Langone Health shows that the risk is around 35% for men and 48% for women after 55. That’s an average of 42%!
This study predicts that the number of new dementia cases will jump from about 514,000 in 2020 to nearly 1 million by 2060. It’s a big deal because dementia affects over 6 million Americans and leads to more than 100,000 deaths each year.
Dr. Josef Coresh, who led the study, says we’re looking at a significant rise in dementia cases. He points out that one in two Americans could face cognitive issues after turning 55. The aging population is a big factor, with around 58 million Americans over 65.
Other contributors include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and unhealthy lifestyles. Women are particularly at risk since they generally live longer, giving dementia more time to develop.
Coresh also highlighted that black adults and seniors over 75 are at higher risk. The study found that many cases go unreported due to poor documentation and monitoring. The median age for a dementia diagnosis is 81, with 17% diagnosed before 75.
While there’s no cure for dementia, catching it early can help families plan for the future. Coresh suggests keeping your blood pressure in check, exercising, and getting enough sleep. He also emphasizes the importance of addressing hearing loss, as many with hearing issues don’t use aids.
