World Alzheimer's Report: Doctors should be trained in early dementia diagnosis
Tuesday 13th September 2011
The World Alzheimer's Report 2011 has estimated that some 27 million people worldwide could be living with undiagnosed dementia.
There are believed to be a total of 36 million dementia sufferers worldwide, meaning that the undiagnosed percentage make up the majority of those with the condition.
In high-income countries, just 20 to 50 per cent of dementia cases are identified, with this proportion dropping to as low as ten per cent in poorer nations.
The report also revealed that doctors often do not diagnose the condition as they believe it is a normal type of ageing and nothing can be done to help.
Despite this, it was discovered that interventions can make a difference, with early diagnosis potentially saving $10,000 (£6,254) per patient in wealthy countries.
Furthermore, drugs and psychological treatments for individuals in the early stages of the disease could improve cognition, independence and quality of life.
In addition, support for caregivers can lower the levels of institutionalisation of dementia patients, as well as reducing stress and generally improving mood.
Marc Wortmann, executive director of Alzheimer's Disease International, which released the report, commented: "Earlier diagnosis can also transform the design and execution of clinical trials to test new treatments.
"But first we need to ensure that people have access to the effective interventions that are already proven and available, which means that health systems need to be prepared, trained and skilled to provide timely and accurate diagnoses, communicated sensitively, with appropriate support."
Authors recommended the promotion of basic competency among health care physicians with regard to early detection of dementia.
They also advised that governments increase investment in dementia research, particularly focusing the effect of drugs on early-stage dementia.
Furthermore, specialist diagnostic centres should be introduced to confirm early-stage dementia diagnoses and put together care management plans.
Written by Martin Lambert
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