LOC642423
Dementia: A Comprehensive Overview
Description
Dementia is a term used to describe a progressive decline in cognitive abilities that can interfere with everyday activities. It can affect memory, thinking, judgment, language, and behavior. Dementia is not a specific disease but rather a group of symptoms that can be caused by various underlying conditions.
Associated Diseases
The most common causes of dementia include:
- Alzheimer's disease
- Vascular dementia
- Lewy body dementia
- Frontotemporal dementia
- Mixed dementia
Risk Factors
- Age: The risk of dementia increases with age.
- Family history: Having a family history of dementia increases the likelihood of developing it.
- Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as stroke, heart disease, and diabetes, can increase the risk of dementia.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity are all associated with an increased risk of dementia.
Did you Know ?
Approximately 50 million people worldwide have dementia, and this number is expected to triple by 2050.