Likelihood of dementia higher among black ethnic groups – Alzheimer’s Society comments
New research from UCL out tomorrow has highlighted the difference in diagnosis rates between black ethnic groups compared to white groups in the UK.
The study, published in Clinical Epidemiology tomorrow (Wednesday 8 August 2018), analysed data from 2,511,681 people, including 66,083 who had a dementia diagnosis, from 2007-2015.
This showed that while dementia prevelance may be higher amongst black men than white men, they are actually less likely to recieve a dementia diagnosis. Black and white women were found to be just as likely to receive a diagnosis.
Dr Doug Brown, Chief Policy and Research Officer at Alzheimer’s Society, says: “By 2021, 1 million people will be living with dementia in the UK, but despite the scale of the issue, we still do not have a simple test to diagnose dementia.
“This research adds flesh to the bones of a worrying pattern we’re starting to see in the UK. Black men are receiving fewer diagnoses than white men, despite prevalence being higher amongst black men.
“Everyone has the right to know what condition they have and the right to the care and support they need. A dementia diagnosis gives people an answer and access to this. It is vital that everyone has equal access to a diagnosis, regardless of their race, gender, age or postcode, and we will continue to build on our work with Government to make sure this happens.”
