From Philadelphia's Independence Blue Cross/Blue Shield, February 27:
Independence saw more than an 80 percent increase in the prevalence of members age 30-44 with Alzheimer’s disease and/or early onset dementia between 2014 and 2017
Philadelphia – February 27, 2020 – According to data collected by Independence Blue Cross and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, diagnoses of early-onset dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in our region and across the country have notably increased in recent years.HT: Philly Voice's "The number of millennials with early-onset Alzheimer's disease is surging, report finds"
The number of commercially insured Americans age 30 to 64 diagnosed with early-onset dementia or Alzheimer’s disease increased by 200% from 2013 to 2017. Among that group, the average age of a person living with either form of dementia is 49. The prevalence of Alzheimer’s and or dementia increased by 83 percent for Independence Blue Cross (Independence) members age 30-44; 50 percent for members age 45-54; and 40 percent for members 55-64 from 2014-2017.
The findings came from a new Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) report, “Early-Onset Dementia and Alzheimer’s Rates Grow for Younger Americans.” The report is part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association’s The Health of America Report® series.
Additional findings from the study include:
“The results of this report are concerning, especially the increase in early onset dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease among younger people,” said Dr. Richard Snyder, chief medical officer and executive vice president of Facilitated Health Networks for Independence Blue Cross. “While the underlying cause is not clear, advances in technology are certainly allowing for earlier and more definitive diagnosis. Regardless, those who develop dementia or Alzheimer’s at an early age will likely require caregiving, either from family members or healthcare providers. The time, cost and impact on families can be significant and can require additional support as these diseases progress.”....MORE
- The number diagnosed with these conditions increased 373% among 30- to 44-year-olds, 311% among 45- to 54-year-olds and 143% among 55- to 64-year-olds from 2013 to 2017
- Rates of diagnosis were higher in the East, the South, and parts of the Midwest, while western states showed lower rates of diagnosis.
- These conditions are more common in women, who make up 58% of those diagnosed.
