UK deaths from Alzheimer's disease up by 52%, finds study

An analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study, published today (18 December) in The Lancet, has found that Alzheimer's disease was responsible for 52 per cent more deaths in 2013 compared to 1990.

The number of UK deaths from Alzheimer's rose from 32,429 in 1990 to 49,349 in 2013.

Commenting on this research Dr James Pickett, Head of Research and Development at Alzheimer's Society, said:

'These figures lay out the scale of the challenge dementia poses to the UK. Both increasing life expectancy and a better recognition amongst doctors of Alzheimer's disease in the last decade are factors behind this rise. However, as the condition is not consistently recorded as a cause of death, this may even be an understatement. With 225,000 people developing dementia every year - the equivalent to one person every three minutes - the condition is one the biggest health and social care challenge we face.

'Despite these statistics, funding for dementia research lags far behind other conditions like cancer. It is vital that we see a step change in dementia research funding so that it is proportionate to the economic and social impact of the condition.'

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Notes to editors:
225,000 will develop dementia this year, that's one every three minutes
Alzheimer's Society research shows that 850,000 people in the UK will have a form of dementia by 2015. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to two million people by 2051
Dementia costs the UK economy over £26 Billion per year. This is the equivalent of more than £30,000 per person with dementia.
Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

Press Office 08450 744 395 Email: press@alzheimers.org.uk