Dementia Is The Leading Cause Of Death In Women

Figures published by the Office of National Statistics on the 29 October indicate that dementia is the leading cause of death in women, with more women dying with dementia than heart disease, the biggest killer of men.

Hilary Evans, Director of External Affairs for Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:

“Age is the biggest risk factor for dementia, and with women living longer than men, we would expect to see this reflected in cause of death. Sadly, about half a million women in the UK are living with dementia.

“The figures highlight dementia as a huge problem that we cannot shy away from any longer. Encouragingly, the statistics reveal that other health conditions, such as heart disease, are beginning to be tamed and this has come about due to improved research into treatment, prevention and better public health. We must now turn our attentions to dementia – our greatest health challenge – and invest in research that will drive better prevention and treatment of the condition.”