cause · Public research summary
Alzheimer disease and other dementias: risks, context and evidence
Age, vascular and metabolic conditions, tobacco, inactivity, social isolation and environmental factors; multiple disease processes contribute.
Educational only. Associations do not establish individual risk or diagnosis. Read the original sources and limitations.
Global mortality context
Rank 5 in WHO GHE 2023; estimated deaths: 2,139,282. Data year, not the current year's count. Global · all ages · both sexes.
Risk context
Age, vascular and metabolic conditions, tobacco, inactivity, social isolation and environmental factors; multiple disease processes contribute.
Signs that can occur
Progressive changes in memory, thinking, communication or familiar daily activities. Occasional forgetfulness alone is not a diagnosis.
What supports health
Physical, social and cognitive activity, vascular risk management and supportive care can help preserve function and quality of life; no guaranteed prevention.
Limits
Population mortality is not prevalence or a personal prognosis. Risks and symptoms do not establish a diagnosis. Seek professional care for health concerns.