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WHO report on the public health response to dementia

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The World Health Organization has published a "Global status report on the public health response to dementia" where it takes stock of actions driven by Member States, WHO and civil society since the adoption of the global action plan, identifies barriers to its implementation especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and highlights areas where urgent, accelerated action is required.

According to WHO, "only a quarter of countries worldwide have a national policy, strategy or plan for supporting people with dementia and their families [...]. . Half of these countries are in WHO’s European Region, with the remainder split between the other Regions. Yet even in Europe, many plans are expiring or have already expired, indicating a need for renewed commitment from governments.

At the same time, the number of people living with dementia is growing according to the report: WHO estimates that more than 55 million people (8.1 % of women and 5.4% of men over 65 years) are living with dementia. This number is estimated to rise to 78 million by 2030 and to 139 million by 2050."

Read the press release: "World failing to address dementia challenge"

See the report: "Global status report on the public health response to dementia"

WHO report