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Global Alzheimer's prevalence and gender disparity

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2026-09-08 00:14 UTC → 2026-09-09 01:12 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Medical experts are highlighting the rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease as global life expectancy increases. Dr. Özlem Önder of Near East University Hospital notes that Alzheimer’s is the primary cause of dementia, accounting for 50% to 70% of cases. Research from the Weill Cornell Women’s Brain Initiative has identified a significant gender disparity, noting that two out of every three people diagnosed with the disease are women. Neuroscientist Lisa Mosconi explains that estrogen provides essential protection for the female brain by aiding blood flow and providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The decline of estrogen during perimenopause and menopause removes this protection. Additionally, fluctuations in cortisol may impact memory and mood, potentially triggering brain changes as early as age 45. Statistical projections from the Alzheimer's Association indicate that a woman aged 65 has a 1-in-6 chance of developing Alzheimer's, compared to a 1-in-11 chance for men. Global trends show a rising burden of cognitive impairment; in 2021, approximately 57 million people worldwide lived with dementia, a figure predicted to reach 130 million by 2050. In Cyprus, data from 2021 shows Alzheimer's and dementia were the second leading cause of death for women (49.9 deaths per 100,000) but only the sixth for men (26.8 deaths per 100,000). In Brazil, the disease affects roughly 8.5% of the population aged 60 and older. Neurologist Edson Issamu Yokoo emphasizes the necessity of early diagnosis and distinguishing normal age-related forgetfulness from symptoms like disorientation, loss of recent memories, and impaired executive functions. Lifestyle factors, including regular physical activity and a balanced diet, remain critical for managing disease progression. Recent findings from the UK Biobank suggest that hormone therapy may offer neuroprotective benefits for women.

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