Editorial: Leadership in the fight against dementia
Some 800,000 people in Britain have been diagnosed with dementia, twice as many may have it in some form and an aging population means this number will double
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.For many years, dementia sufferers in Britain have been victims not just of a debilitating condition, but of widespread ignorance as to its causes or cures, and also of government neglect. Now, however, the issue is finally being treated with the seriousness it deserves.
Some 800,000 people in Britain have been diagnosed with dementia. Twice as many may have it in some form. Our ageing population means the number of sufferers is expected to more than double by 2050, with all the healthcare costs that entails. Dementia victims already occupy a quarter of hospital beds.
The Prime Minister ought, therefore, to be congratulated for making investment in dementia research and diagnosis a top priority under Britain’s forthcoming chairmanship of the G8. At a difficult time for their party, he and Jeremy Hunt, the Health Secretary, have shown long-overdue leadership on this critical issue.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments