A recent study forecasts a doubling of global dementia cases over the next 25 years, with new diagnoses climbing from 11.4 million in 2023 to 24.7 million by 2050.
Researchers highlight that women and individuals in less affluent nations face heightened dementia risks. Dr. Liron Sinvani, director of research and innovation at the Northwell Institute for Healthy Aging, emphasizes the urgency of the situation, calling it an escalating crisis requiring immediate action rather than a distant concern.
Factors contributing to dementia
Under the guidance of Ashleigh Vella, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of New South Wales in Australia, the study team analyzed data from 22 prior investigations involving nearly 40,000 participants across 18 countries and six continents. Their findings indicate that global aging will likely drive dementia cases to more than double.
Dr. Sinvani attributes the rise in dementia to population aging. She notes that after age 65, about 1 in 9 people have dementia, but after 85, it could be almost 1 in 3.
Researchers projected more dementia in women compared to men, with 18 cases per 1,000 persons versus 10.6 cases. These numbers held even after the team adjusted for age. Dr. Sinvani points out that women’s higher risk extends beyond their longer lifespan.
Worldwide Health Challenge
The research identifies several factors potentially raising dementia risk in women, such as menopause-related hormonal shifts and metabolic issues affecting heart health. Additionally, low- and middle-income countries are expected to experience faster growth in dementia cases compared to wealthier nations.
Dr. Sinvani observes a 64% higher rate of new dementia cases in less affluent countries, showing the strain this will place on their healthcare systems. She stresses the need for global preparedness to address the surging demand for diagnosis and care.
Focusing on prevention could alleviate these grim projections, according to Dr. Sinvani. She highlights 14 modifiable risk factors contributing to nearly half of dementia cases, suggesting that improvements in education, physical activity, and weight management can reduce risk.
Dementia rates are expected to rise, but certain lifestyle measures like healthy eating and exercise can help reduce your risk. For additional strategies to lower dementia risk, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
SOURCES: JAMA Neurology, Oct. 12, 2026; Dr. Liron Sinvani, director of research and innovation at Northwell Institute for Healthy Aging and professor at Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research. “These are all things that can modify the trajectory of what we’re facing,” Sinvani concluded.