The number of people suffering from Dementia in India are expected to rise to 12 million by 2050, witnessing an unprecedented three-fold rise, according to a new report.
"By 2050, the number of people in the Asia Pacific Region suffering from dementia will rise to 71 million from 23 million in 2015 with India coming second only to China with over 12 million likely victims of dementia," the report by Alzheimer's' Disease International (ADI) said.
The report titled "Dementia in Asia Pacific Region" also highlights the tremendous costs associated with the malady, which is characterised by progressive loss of the powers of the brain, in the Asia-Pacific region, a figure which currently stands at USD 185 million.
Out of it 70 per cent is borne by the advanced economies, which only account for 18 per cent of the regional prevalence of the disease.
The report, which was released yesterday by the NHRC Chairman Justice K G Balakrishnan at the 17th Asia Pacific Regional Conference of ADI, also includes recommendations for the government and other stake holders to recognise the imperative need for increased awareness, education and research in Dementia.
"The figures show that dementia will present an overwhelming financial and human burden to health and care systems. Governments need to play a very pro-active role in tackling the situation related to dementia," said Dr K Jacob Roy, Chairman of Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI).
The most common types of Dementia are Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. These diseases damage and kill brain cells, hampering its normal functioning.
The disease causes problems with memory, communication and thinking. Sometimes performing activities such as handling money and dressing become a task for people affected with dementia.
