In this article, we will be taking a look at the 20 countries with the highest rate of dementia. If you wish to see the top ones, head straight to the 5 Countries with the Highest Rate of Dementia.
Dementia, a debilitating and distressing neurological condition, has emerged as a pressing global health concern, affecting millions worldwide. Among the nations grappling with the highest rates of dementia, some nations like the UK, USA, and Canada, among others, stand out for their significant prevalence of this cognitive disorder. As populations age and life expectancy increases, countries are witnessing a surge in dementia cases, straining healthcare systems and demanding urgent attention.
Prevalence and Incidence of Dementia: A Comparative Analysis
As the global population ages and life expectancy increases, the prevalence of dementia has become a growing concern for businesses worldwide. Over 50 million people worldwide live with dementia, with the figure projected to reach 153 million by 2050.
Challenges and Opportunities in Dementia Care
Dementia care has become a significant challenge for businesses in the healthcare sector. In the United States alone, the cost of caring for dementia patients is estimated to be over $200 billion annually, with an expected increase to $1 trillion by 2050. This rising number of patients with dementia has created a need for healthcare companies to provide specialized care and support for these individuals. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity for businesses to develop innovative solutions and improve the quality of care for dementia patients.
Innovative Technologies for Dementia Care
As the elderly population grows, dementia care is becoming increasingly important. According to statistics, the global vascular dementia treatment market is expected to reach $8.9 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.77%. Innovative technologies are being developed to help improve the quality of life for those with dementia while supporting their caregivers. One such technology is remote monitoring, which has shown promising results.
A study by the National Institutes of Health found that remote monitoring can reduce caregiver stress and improve the quality of care for those with dementia. Additionally, virtual reality is effective in improving cognitive function.
Advancements in Dementia Drugs: Approved Treatments and Companies Pursuing Alzheimer’s Therapies
The advancements in dementia drugs have been a major breakthrough for patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. With the approval of new treatments, there is hope that these debilitating conditions can be better managed and even cured in the future. Several companies are currently pursuing Alzheimer’s therapies, with the aim of developing drugs that can slow or even reverse the effects of the disease.
Biogen’s Aduhelm is one such drug, which was recently approved by the FDA for use in patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s. The drug targets amyloid plaques in the brain, which are believed to be a major contributor to the disease. Other companies, such as Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY), one of the most profitable pharmaceutical companies in the world and BioVie Inc. (NASDAQ:BIVI), are also working on Alzheimer’s treatments that target different aspects of the disease. These drugs aim to reduce inflammation in the brain, improve cognitive function, and slow the progression of the disease.
Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) had a revenue of $28.54 billion in 2022 while BioVie Inc. (NASDAQ:BIVI) has a current market cap of $190.16 million. Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) and BioVie Inc. (NASDAQ:BIVI) largely contribute in the cure of dementia.
While there is still much work to be done in the field of dementia drugs, the recent approvals of new treatments are a promising sign for the millions of people around the world who suffer from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. As research continues, we can hope for even more effective treatments that can improve the lives of those affected by these devastating conditions.
Our Methodology
For our methodology, we have ranked the countries with the highest rate of dementia, as of 2020, in ascending order of dementia death rate per 100,000 population. We have used World Health Organiation’s data for our list.
Here is our list of the 20 countries with the highest rates of dementia.
20. Vietnam
Dementia Rate: 23.72%
Vietnam ranks 20th among the countries with the highest rates of dementia. Informal caregivers face income loss and reduced productivity. Addressing this issue requires increased investment in research and development for treatments, along with awareness and education about dementia. Early detection and support services are essential for patients and families.
19. Switzerland
Dementia Rate: 23.78%
Dementia is a growing concern in Switzerland, with approximately 150,000 people affected. The economic impact is substantial, with dementia care costs exceeding CHF 50,000 ($54,265) per person annually. However, there are opportunities in the dementia healthcare market, creating possibilities for innovative solutions and technology to support those affected by the condition.
18. Mozambique
Dementia Rate: 23.88%
Dementia is a serious issue in Mozambique, leading to stigma and limited support. Organizations are working to raise awareness and improve care, but more resources are needed to address the growing challenge. Funding for dementia care remains inadequate, highlighting the need for a more inclusive society that properly supports those affected by dementia and their caregivers.
17. Bahrain
Dementia Rate: 24.32%
Dementia is a rising concern in Bahrain, with an estimated 24.32% dementia death rate per 1000,000 population and this number is expected to increase with the aging population. As the dementia market in Bahrain gains awareness, a growing need for improved care and support could lead to increased investment in this area.
16. New Zealand
Dementia Rate: 24.84%
The cost of dementia care in New Zealand surpassed $4,000 per capita in 2019, straining the healthcare system and impacting businesses as employees may take time off to care for loved ones. Caregivers face high levels of stress, impacting their mental health. Opportunities exist in the country’s dementia market for innovative products and services, but further research and financial investment are needed to understand the condition and develop effective treatments.
15. Kiribati
Dementia Rate: 25.26%
Dementia has a significant economic impact in Kiribati, as families bear the financial burden of caring for loved ones who can no longer work. Approximately 25% per 100,000 of the population has been affected, increasing the demand for innovative solutions and support services. However, limited healthcare resources and a shortage of trained professionals pose challenges for providing adequate dementia care in the country.
14. Sri Lanka
Dementia Rate: 27.62%
Sri Lanka will have a projected 460,000 dementia patients by 2050. The economic impact is substantial, with healthcare expenses amounting to 4.7% of the GDP. Businesses face challenges accommodating employees with dementia, leading to decreased productivity and increased absenteeism. Caring for someone with dementia puts financial strain on families, and as the population ages, these implications are expected to grow, necessitating specialized care facilities and increased research funding.
13. Canada
Dementia Rate: 27.87%
The economic impact of dementia in Canada is meaningful, with care costs exceeding $10 billion annually, encompassing healthcare, lost productivity, and caregiver burden. However, the dementia market presents opportunities for new treatments and better caregiver support, leading to improved lives, economic growth, and business prospects.
12. Norway
Dementia Rate: 28.94%
Dementia is a significant concern in Norway. The cost of care is increasing, presenting challenges and opportunities for the healthcare industry. Raising awareness, providing support, and offering innovative solutions are crucial for the dementia market in Norway. The demand for specialized care is rising, making it a potentially lucrative business market.
11. Denmark
Dementia Rate: 29.41%
The growing number of people with dementia in Denmark strains the healthcare system, affecting the economy and businesses that may need to provide specialized care for employees and family members.
10. Sweden
Dementia Rate: 30.96%
Sweden stands tenth among the countries with the highest death rate of dementia. However, the Swedish government’s substantial investment in dementia research gives reason to be optimistic.
9. Ireland
Dementia Rate: 32.23%
The cost of dementia care is approximately €1.69 billion ($1.99 billion) annually in Ireland. Resources, financial support from the government, and charity assistance are available to help cope with these challenges. The market for dementia products and services is expanding, offering memory aids, home care services, and assistive technology to support those affected by the condition.
8. The United States
Dementia Rate: 33.26%
The United States is one of the countries with the highest rate of dementia. The economic impact is substantial, with dementia care exceeding $4,000 monthly on per capita basis, leading to challenges for businesses managing healthcare costs and employee absenteeism. Family members and caregivers bear the burden of care, leading to increased stress and burnout. On a positive note, the U.S. memory care market was worth $5.82 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2023 to 2030, offering opportunities for businesses and investors to make a positive impact while generating financial returns.
7. Netherlands
Dementia Rate: 33.78%
Just like other countries, Netherlands has a high rate of dementia. The dementia market in the country is growing, with increasing demand for innovative solutions and technologies, such as assistive devices and telemedicine. Investing in research and support systems can improve the lives of those living with dementia and their caregivers.
6. Brunei
Dementia Rate: 33.87%
Dementia is a pressing issue in Brunei, with approximately 33.87% dementia cases per 100,000 population. Addressing the challenges of dementia in Brunei will require collaboration between the government, healthcare providers, businesses, and the community.
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Disclosure. None: 20 Countries with the Highest Rate of Dementia is originally published on Insider Monkey.