Alzheimer's disease affects an estimated 10 million people in China, with the figure expected to reach 30 million by 2030
Memory is what makes us who we are, connects generations and preserves history. When it fades, not only patients suffer but also their loved ones and society as a whole. Early diagnosis and attention to the older generation are not just medical tasks but a matter of human dignity and care.
Alzheimer's disease, a neurodegenerative condition, affects an estimated 10 million people in China. According to the China Alzheimer's Association, as life expectancy increases, this figure is expected to reach 30 million by 2030. September 21 marks World Alzheimer's Day, held this year under the slogan "The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the more memories are preserved."
"China's growing ageing population is leading to an increase in the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease. Starting from age 60, prevalence doubles every five years. The 70 to 80 age group is a period of high incidence requiring special attention," said Xu Yong, president of the China Alzheimer's Association. The official theme of this year's World Alzheimer's Day is "Know the early signs, do more: a dementia diagnosis matters."
Specialists classify the disease into early-onset and sporadic forms. Early cases account for about five percent and usually manifest before age 65, mainly in those with a family history. Sporadic cases account for roughly 95 percent and typically appear after age 65. Their onset is linked to factors such as age and the APOE-e4 risk gene, and prevalence increases with age.
As reported by CCTV+, the rising incidence of Alzheimer's disease in China reflects the global trend of population ageing. Early diagnosis and awareness are becoming key tools in the fight against the disease, and World Alzheimer's Day serves as a reminder of the importance of attention to memory and the health of older people.
