US Dementia Cases to Reach 1 Million Annually by 2060, With 42% Lifetime Risk After Age 55

Jan 13, 2025, 07:01 PM

A new study published in Nature Medicine projects that the number of new dementia cases in the United States will double by 2060, rising from approximately 514,000 in 2020 to about 1 million annually. The research, which analyzed data from over 15,000 participants, estimates that the lifetime risk of developing dementia after age 55 is approximately 42%. The study highlights that the risk is higher among certain groups, with women facing a 48% risk and men a 35% risk. Additionally, Black Americans are at a higher risk, with a projected increase in cases that will triple by 2060 compared to 2020 levels. The findings underscore the urgent need for policies to support healthy aging and address health equity.