Dementia Cases In The U.S Continue To Decline

KYW Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- I have some good news and some bad news to report. Let's start with the good news.

The incidence of dementia in the U.S. has fallen over the last three decades. In an analysis of data from the Framingham Heart Study, says incidents of dementia fell about 20 percent per decade since 1977.

Why?

Mostly because of attempts to help treat cardiovascular disease. As a result of working on heart disease and preventing blood vessel damage, there have been declines in vascular dementia. But, the researchers from Boston University say that Alzheimer's has not declined.

What they found in their study was that some cases of dementia might be preventable or at least delayed, as in the case of vascular dementia.  But, it also emphasizes our incomplete understanding and need for further exploration of factors that contribute to dementia.