Prime Highlights:
- A review by Public Health Wales suggests that nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented through healthier lifestyles and better environments.
- Experts say improving daily habits and protecting brain health throughout life can significantly reduce the risk of dementia.
Key Facts:
- Around 57 million people worldwide were living with dementia in 2019, and the number could rise to 153 million by 2050.
- Global spending on dementia reached about 1.3 trillion dollars in 2019 and may more than double by 2030.
Background:
A new review by Public Health Wales says nearly half of dementia cases could be prevented through healthier lifestyles and better environments. The findings challenge the belief that dementia is a normal part of ageing and stress the need to protect brain health.
Dementia remains a serious global health problem. In 2019, about 57 million people worldwide were living with dementia, and experts expect this number to reach 153 million by 2050.
The financial impact is also high. Global spending on dementia reached about 1.3 trillion dollars in 2019 and could more than double by 2030. Health experts say prevention could ease pressure on healthcare systems while improving the quality of life for millions of people.
Dr Mariana Dyakova, Head of International Health and Well-being Economy Lead at Public Health Wales, said the evidence clearly shows that dementia risk can be reduced.
She said that better lifestyle habits and environments can help people protect their brain health and reduce the risk of the condition. She also added that these steps can improve overall health, not just lower dementia risk.
The findings come as the Welsh Government consults on a new Dementia Strategy for Wales. Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Sarah Murphy said the report strengthens the case for early and sustained action to protect brain health.
The review also highlighted prevention programmes in other countries. One example is Finland’s FINGER trial, which included exercise, a healthy diet, brain training and control of vascular risk factors. People who took part in the programme showed improvements in cognitive performance.
Public Health Wales is encouraging people to stay active, eat a balanced diet, stay socially connected and manage long-term health conditions to lower their risk of dementia.
