Global trends in dementia strategies

Abstract

The global number of dementia cases is expected to increase to 152 million by 2050, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, significantly impacting individuals, families, and economies.

Various organizations and academic groups have proposed indicators for addressing dementia. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicators focus on early detection, prevention, public health measures, and national policies for dementia, especially from an international perspective. From an academic perspective, the Lancet Commission, which began in 2017 and updated in 2020 and 2024, proposes a comprehensive life course model for dementia prevention. Additionally, the American Heart Association (AHA) expands its cardiovascular health strategy to include dementia prevention through its Life’s Essentials 8 guidelines. Therefore, this review outlines and compares these guidelines and strategies against dementia.

In Japan, the Basic Law for the Promotion of Dementia Measures, enacted in 2023, emphasizes social initiatives alongside individual health management. This study also indicates that with the advent of disease-modifying drugs for Alzheimer’s disease in countries including Japan, the need for early detection and comprehensive care may increase.