Report Details Rise in Dementia and Alzheimer's Cases
Experts are saying individuals may be able to lower their risk of memory loss if they introduce simple lifestyle modifications.
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September 22, 2009
A new study from the group Alzheimer's Disease International has found the disease and various other types of dementia are on the rise around the world.
The organization, which is a nonprofit federation of more than 70 national groups, says more than 35 million people worldwide, and about 4.4 million in the U.S., are currently suffering from these diseases. The number is 10 percent higher than what scientists predicted a few years ago.
The study also points out that as people live longer, dementia rates risk doubling every 20 years if there is no medical breakthrough.
Experts are saying individuals may be able to lower their risk of memory loss if they introduce simple lifestyle modifications, as the same factors that cause heart disease - namely obesity, high cholesterol and diabetes - appear to elevate the risk of dementia as well.
Some studies have also suggested that memory training techniques may delay or prevent the onset of dementia. For example, researchers at George Mason University have found that certain types of meditation, known as Deity Yoga and the Open Presence technique can aid in memory retention.
For those facing the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease there are many resources - such as the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center of the National Institutes of Health - that can help extend survival and allow them to thrive for as long as possible. They can also help their families and caregivers find a support network and access valuable information.
Meanwhile, those interested in sharing their experiences or donating money towards finding a cure are encouraged to visit the Alzheimer's Association website.
A new study from the group Alzheimer's Disease International has found the disease and various other types of dementia are on the rise around the world.
The organization, which is a nonprofit federation of more than 70 national groups, says more than 35 million people worldwide, and about 4.4 million in the U.S., are currently suffering from these diseases. The number is 10 percent higher than what scientists predicted a few years ago.
The study also points out that as people live longer, dementia rates risk doubling every 20 years if there is no medical breakthrough.
Experts are saying individuals may be able to lower their risk of memory loss if they introduce simple lifestyle modifications, as the same factors that cause heart disease - namely obesity, high cholesterol and diabetes - appear to elevate the risk of dementia as well.
Some studies have also suggested that memory training techniques may delay or prevent the onset of dementia. For example, researchers at George Mason University have found that certain types of meditation, known as Deity Yoga and the Open Presence technique can aid in memory retention.
For those facing the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease there are many resources - such as the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center of the National Institutes of Health - that can help extend survival and allow them to thrive for as long as possible. They can also help their families and caregivers find a support network and access valuable information.
Meanwhile, those interested in sharing their experiences or donating money towards finding a cure are encouraged to visit the Alzheimer's Association website.
