How many people had Alzheimer's in 2019? A breakdown of global and U.S. prevalence

According to estimates from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, approximately 57.4 million people worldwide were living with dementia in 2019. With Alzheimer's disease being the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases, this figure provides a broad context for understanding how many people had Alzheimer's in 2019. The vast majority of those affected were aged 65 or older.

Quick Summary

In 2019, millions of people lived with Alzheimer's disease, comprising the largest portion of global dementia cases, with the U.S. alone reporting millions affected. The prevalence was highly concentrated among older adults and disproportionately impacted women.

Key Points

• Global Burden: In 2019, approximately 57.4 million people worldwide were living with some form of dementia, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common type.

• U.S. Prevalence: An estimated 5.8 million Americans of all ages had Alzheimer's dementia in 2019, with 5.6 million of these individuals aged 65 and older.

• Age is a Major Factor: The prevalence of Alzheimer's increases dramatically with age, with a third of Americans aged 85 and older affected in 2019.

• Disproportionate Impact on Women: Global data from 2019 showed that women are disproportionately affected by dementia, experiencing higher mortality and disability-adjusted life years.

• Significant Economic Cost: The global societal cost of dementia in 2019 was estimated at US $1.3 trillion, driven significantly by informal care costs.

• Trends Signal Continued Growth: The 2019 statistics highlighted trends in population aging and growth, which were projected to lead to a significant increase in cases in the following decades.

Global snapshot: 2019 dementia and Alzheimer's statistics

In 2019, data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study indicated that around 57.4 million people worldwide were living with dementia. Alzheimer's disease, being the most common form, likely made up the majority of these cases, estimated at 60% to 80%. This reflects a considerable number of individuals globally experiencing the effects of the disease. In the U.S., the Alzheimer's Association's 2019 report estimated that 5.8 million Americans of all ages were living with Alzheimer's dementia, with most (5.6 million) aged 65 and older. The risk of Alzheimer's dementia increased significantly with age, affecting 3% of those 65-74, 17% of those 75-84, and 32% of those 85 and older. Further details can be found in the {Link: 2019 Alzheimer's disease facts and figures report https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1016/j.jalz.2019.01.010}.

The growing impact of Alzheimer's in 2019 and beyond

The 2019 data served as a key reference point for tracking the disease. The observed increase in prevalence globally and nationally is consistent with factors like population aging and growth. Projections from the GBD study, based on 2019 data, indicated a substantial increase in the number of individuals living with dementia by 2050.

Beyond demographics, risk factors like high BMI, high fasting plasma glucose, and smoking were identified as significant contributors to the burden of Alzheimer's and other dementias in 2019. This understanding of modifiable risk factors highlights the importance of public health strategies to address the growing scale of the disease.

The continuing research and public health efforts

The 2019 statistics reinforced ongoing public health initiatives addressing Alzheimer's and dementia. Organizations like the WHO continued efforts outlined in global action plans. Research into the disease's mechanisms progresses, and new treatments showing promise in slowing cognitive decline have emerged since 2019. The 2019 figures remain a stark reminder of the disease's impact and the ongoing need for advancements.

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For more information on the latest research and support resources, visit the Alzheimer's Association website.

Conclusion: A defining year for Alzheimer's awareness

In conclusion, 2019 provided clear statistical evidence of the widespread impact of Alzheimer's and dementia. With millions affected globally and several million in the U.S., it presented a major public health challenge. The data emphasized that while not a normal part of aging, the disease primarily impacts older populations, a trend expected to continue. The 2019 statistics underlined the critical need for sustained investment in research, prevention, and support for those affected and their caregivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease?

Dementia is a broad, umbrella term for a collection of symptoms, including memory loss and declining cognitive skills, caused by physical changes in the brain. Alzheimer's disease is the most common specific cause of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of all cases.

What was the worldwide prevalence of dementia in 2019?

According to a study using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019, an estimated 57.4 million people were living with dementia globally in 2019.

How many Americans had Alzheimer's in 2019?

In the United States, an estimated 5.8 million people of all ages were living with Alzheimer's dementia in 2019, according to the Alzheimer's Association. This included approximately 5.6 million individuals aged 65 and older and 200,000 with younger-onset Alzheimer's.

Did more women or men have Alzheimer's in 2019?

Global data from 2019 consistently showed a higher prevalence of dementia among women than men, a trend also noted in the United States. In 2019, women experienced higher disability-adjusted life years and mortality due to dementia.

What were the main risk factors for Alzheimer's in 2019?

Age was the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, with a significantly higher prevalence among older populations. Other contributing factors highlighted by 2019 studies included metabolic risks (like high BMI) and smoking.

Was Alzheimer's on the rise in 2019?

Yes, both global and U.S. statistics indicated that the number of people living with Alzheimer's and other dementias was on the rise in 2019. This increase was primarily driven by population aging and growth.

How did the 2019 figures impact public health efforts?

The data from 2019 solidified the understanding of Alzheimer's as a growing global public health priority, leading to increased focus on risk factor interventions and planning for future care requirements. It underscored the urgency for continued research and support.