The WHO Kobe Centre and Kobe University announced today that they have entered into agreement to conduct research on developing a frugal comprehensive model of early detection and management for dementia.
Worldwide, there has been a significant increase in numbers of people with some form of dementia. In 2012, the number of people with cognitive problems in Japan was more than 8 million, including more than 4.5 million persons with dementia and more than 4 million people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). And, this figure will increase rapidly as Japan’s percentage of its population over 65 years rises.
Scientific evidence indicates that earlier identification of dementia can lead to interventions that can slow the process of cognitive decline, and thus potentially delay the transition to severe dementia.
The WHO Kobe Centre is supporting Kobe University and key partners to conduct a three year project, with support by Kobe City, to develop and test a comprehensive model of mass screening and targeted community education leading to effective and efficient early detection and diagnosis of dementia.
“The outcome of the research is expected to contribute to ultimately reduce social burden of dementia on persons living with dementia and their family members, and to provide evidence for improving community and government future policy for dementia management, and how to structure community-based awareness and care programmes in Japan and worldwide" said Mr Alex Ross, Director, WHO Kobe Centre.
“Kobe has been a pioneer in conducting dementia and ageing-related research. The results of this research project will hopefully contribute to delay further deterioration, where there is no cure for dementia and to build community where people with dementia can continue to stay independent” said Professor Yoji Nagai, lead researcher and Director, Center for Clinical Research, Kobe University Hospital.
Note to editors:
- Research Group members include:
Kobe University (lead research institution):
Professor Yoji Nagai, lead researcher and Director, Center for Clinical Research, Kobe University Hospital
research Informatics Center:
Dr. Shinsuke Kojima, Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation
Kobe Gakuin University:
Professor Kiyoshi Maeda, School of Rehabilitation
WHO Kobe Centre:
Dr Ryoma Kayano, Technical Officer - Dementia is a syndrome in which there is deterioration in memory, thinking, behaviour and the ability to perform everyday activities
- Although dementia mainly affects older people, it is not a normal part of ageing.
- Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia and may contribute to 60–70% of cases.
- More than 47 million people are living with dementia there are 7.7 million new cases every year. Sixty percent of these people live in low- and middle-income countries. Driven by population ageing, this number is expected to triple by 2050. Already, dementia and cognitive impairment are the leading chronic disease contributors to disability and dependence among older people worldwide.
- Dementia is one of the major causes of disability and dependency among older people worldwide.
- Dementia has physical, psychological, social and economical impact on caregivers, families and society.
- In 2010, the worldwide cost of dementia, mainly driven by social-care needs, was estimated at US$ 604 billion. Without breakthroughs in effective treatment and care, these costs are set to soar, with costs growing fastest in low- and middle-income countries.
Related Links (English)
- WHO Headquarter - Media centre
- WHO Headquarter - Mental health
- Kobe University
- Kobe University Hospital
- Translational Research Informatic Center
- Kobe Gakuin University