Abstract
Because of the aging of the population, dementia - already the third most expensive disease in developed countries - will become even more common in the next few decades, reaching pandemic proportions. Understanding of this problem, with its huge clinical, social and economic implications, necessitates action. Like in other epidemics, prevention is easier than cure. Due to epidemiologic research, several common risk factors for dementia have been identified which can be treated. In the present paper, we shall discuss the nosology of old age dementia, and particularly Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, and the effect of the definitions of these disorders on our understanding of the epidemiology of dementia and of measures which can be taken to reduce its prevalence. Because it is impossible to discuss at length all risk factors, we shall focus on the relationship between smoking with dementia and the role of brain trauma in triggering dementia.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Handbook of Clinical Neuroepidemiology |
Publisher | Nova Science Publishers, Inc. |
Pages | 179-195 |
Number of pages | 17 |
ISBN (Print) | 1600215114, 9781600215117 |
State | Published - 2007 |