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Dementia is leading cause of death for Australian women but only 16% are aware, experts call for $70 million campaign
New data from Jean Hailes has revealed that dementia is the leading cause of death for Australian women, yet only 16% are aware of this fact. Fewer than half know the risks can be reduced. Experts are calling for a $70 million national prevention campaign.
New data from Jean Hailes has revealed that dementia is the leading cause of death for Australian women, yet a concerning survey found that only 16 percent of women are aware of this fact. Fewer than half know that the risks of developing dementia can actually be reduced through lifestyle changes.
Research shows that almost half of all dementia cases are potentially preventable if 14 identified risk factors are addressed. These include high blood pressure, impaired vision, hearing loss, depression, air pollution, and physical inactivity. Experts say people need to take control of their brain health now rather than waiting.
Health professionals are calling for a national prevention campaign costing 70 million dollars over four years to raise awareness about dementia risk reduction. The government has expressed interest but has not yet made any firm funding commitments, noting that getting the messaging right in this new area of public health will take careful planning.
Australia's dementia rates are projected to double in coming decades as the population ages, making prevention efforts increasingly urgent. While ageing is a significant factor in developing dementia, the evidence is clear that many cases could be prevented or delayed through targeted interventions earlier in life.
Personal stories from those affected by dementia underline the urgency of the campaign. Advocates are urging others to be more prepared and proactive about their brain health, emphasising that simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in reducing dementia risk, ABC News Australia reported.