Alzheimer’s disease remains one of the health conditions that most concern Spanish society (63%), a short distance from cancer (68%) and ahead of stroke (57%) and heart attack (46%). . COVID-19, which ranked 4th in the first wave of the survey, presented in the middle of the pandemic, currently drops to eighth place.
This is one of the main conclusions of the second wave of the survey of “Attitudes and perceptions of the Spanish population about Alzheimer’s” prepared by the Pasqual Maragall Foundation, with the support of the Ministry of Social Rights and Agenda 2030, to a sample of 2,395 people. The results also reveal that Alzheimer’s is the first health concern after the age of 55, since 79% of those surveyed consider it the main problem faced by older people, above cancer.
Furthermore, the survey highlights the magnitude of the impact that Alzheimer’s has on society, since two out of every three Spaniards claim to know someone who has or has had the disease, in 27% of cases it is a first-hand relative. degree.
2 out of 3 Spaniards claim to know someone who has or has had the disease, in 27% of cases it is a first-degree relative
The objective of this study, which is presented within the framework of World Alzheimer’s Day, is to know the opinion of the population on different aspects of the disease and to provide an analysis of the perceptions, knowledge and attitudes towards Alzheimer’s and its research. . “Within the framework of World Alzheimer’s Day, we published this study to reaffirm the growing concern about this disease, its enormous social impact and the need to continue working to expand the knowledge of the Spanish population about this disease. We believe that it is crucial to generate public debate and social awareness so that this disease receives the attention it deserves and its approach is considered a strategic priority,” declared Dr. Arcadi Navarro, director of the Pasqual Maragall Foundation.
Lack of knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease
In the survey, 1 in 4 Spaniards claim to have a high level of knowledge of the disease and almost half have average knowledge. However, the results show confusion regarding important aspects of Alzheimer’s such as:
- Almost half (45%) of those surveyed consider that developing Alzheimer’s is part of the aging process, when it is not a direct cause and does not cause its development.
- 57% of the population considers that Alzheimer’s is hereditary, when in reality genetic inheritance is only determining in 1% of cases, or less.
- Only 56% know that the development of Alzheimer’s can be prevented by leading healthy lifestyle habits.
Context of Alzheimer’s in Spain
Alzheimer’s is a health problem of great relevance in Spain, which affects, along with other dementias, more than 900,000 people, a figure that translates to one in ten people over 65 years of age. It represents between 60% and 70% of dementia cases in the country and it is estimated that, with the aging of the population, the number of cases could double in Spain in the coming decades.
It is a disease with a strong impact on the family structure, since in 80% of cases, the role of the main caregiver falls on a family member, who assumes an average of 70 hours of dedication per week without often have the resources and support necessary to face this situation.
In addition to the impact on time and health, there is also a considerable economic impact associated with it and the annual cost of caring for an affected person is estimated at €30,000, a figure that highlights the effect of Alzheimer’s on families and the healthcare system. health.
Prioritize research into Alzheimer’s
The Pasqual Maragall Foundation survey highlights the importance of raising awareness in society about Alzheimer’s and the need to invest in research and health to confront the advance of this disease. In this sense, the population considers that research must be a priority and maintains high confidence that a cure for the disease will be found, despite the fact that more than 60% believe that the necessary resources are not allocated.
“We are at a historic moment in the development of Alzheimer’s research with new biomarkers for the early detection of the disease and with the arrival of the first drugs that slow its progression. Therefore, it is essential to continue reporting on scientific advances and modifiable risk factors to prevent, detect and treat the disease more effectively, as well as demand more resources and support for research so that Alzheimer’s is a political priority in the world. scientific, health and care field”, declares Dr. Navarro.
Source: Pasqual Maragall Foundation
