CDC Study: Alzheimer's and dementia to triple by 2060 in U.S.

Sept. 20--The number of people living with Alzheimer's and other dementia diseases in America will triple by 2060, according to a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Alzhimer's is a disorder that slowly destroys memory and other brain functions, and is most common among people 65 and older.

The increase is due to people living longer and surviving chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, as well as a growing population.

In 2014, 5 million people were diagnosed with Alzheimers and other dementia diseases, making up 1.6 percent of the population. By 2060, 13.9 million people are projected to develop those diseases, making up 3.3 percent of the population.

Among those 65 and older, African Americans have the highest prevalence of Alzheimer's and related dementia diseases, at 13.8 percent, followed by Latinos, whites, American Indian and Alaskan Natives and Asian and Pacific Islanders.

"This study shows that as the U.S. population increases, the number of people affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias will rise, especially among minority populations," said CDC Director Robert R. Redfield, M.D. "Early diagnosis is key to helping people and their families cope with loss of memory, navigate the health care system, and plan for their care in the future."

Bhuang@mcall.com

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