Number of people with dementia expected to rise 40% within decade, WHO says

The number of people worldwide suffering from dementia is expecting to rise to 78 million by 2030, according to a report published Thursday by the World Health Organization.

Dementia can be caused by a variety of diseases or injuries that affect the brain like a stroke, brain injury or Alzheimer’s disease. It is currently the seventh leading cause of death among all diseases and a major cause of disability and dependency among older people.  While there is no treatment, developing dementia is not an inevitable consequence of aging, the WHO said. Numerous studies have shown the risk of acquiring it can be reduced by staying physically active, not smoking, drinking moderately, and maintaining a healthy diet.