Alzheimer’s Research UK calls for urgent investment in dementia research

Alzheimer’s Research UK is calling for urgent investment in dementia research, following new statistics that show the condition accounted for 13% of all UK deaths last year. The figures were released by the Office for National Statistics today (Wednesday 18 July).

Data for 2017 shows that in total, there were 67,641 deaths attributed to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia – 13% of the total deaths recorded that year. This is a rise from 2016, when there were 62,948 deaths from dementia (12% of all those recorded).

Dr Matthew Norton, Director of Policy and Strategy at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:

These figures yet again underline the overwhelming impact of dementia for the UK, and for hundreds of thousands of families who are hit by the condition. With one in four hospital beds occupied by someone with dementia and deaths from the condition rising, we must take urgent action. As well as support for dementia research, the condition must become a priority for the NHS 10-year plan.

Scientific advances have meant deaths from many serious diseases are now falling and by investing in dementia research, we can offer the same hope for people affected by the diseases that cause dementia, most commonly Alzheimer’s. We must make dementia research a priority if we are to bring about much-needed life-changing treatments."