Alzheimer's disease prevalence rises with aging population

In observance of World Alzheimer's Day on September 21, medical experts are highlighting the growing impact of Alzheimer's disease as global life expectancy increases. Assistant Professor Dr. Özlem Önder, a neurology specialist at Near East University Hospital, noted that Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 50% to 70% of cases.

Dr. Önder explained that dementia involves the loss of acquired mental functions, leading to a decline in intellectual and social abilities that affects daily life. Alzheimer's specifically presents as a slow-progressing clinical condition characterized by memory loss and the deterioration of multiple cognitive areas.

The prevalence of the disease is significant among older populations, affecting between 3% and 11% of individuals over age 65, and rising to between 20% and 47% for those over age 85. As the global population ages, the social and economic burden of the disease is expected to increase.