Dementia Cases in the U.S. Projected to Double by 2060

A new study estimates that one million Americans will develop dementia annually by 2060, with significant racial and gender disparities in risk.

The study, published in *Nature Medicine*, predicts the number of new U.S. dementia cases will rise from 500,000 annually to one million by 2060, driven by an aging population.
Lifetime dementia risk for individuals over 55 is now estimated at 42%, significantly higher than previous estimates, with women (48%) and Black Americans (44%) facing higher risks.
Black Americans are expected to see dementia cases triple by 2060, partly due to structural inequities and faster population growth among older age groups compared to White Americans.
The study highlights genetic, socioeconomic, and health factors, such as the APOE4 gene, poor access to care, and conditions like high blood pressure, as contributors to dementia risk.
Researchers emphasize prevention strategies, including managing vascular health, improving access to hearing aids, and promoting healthy lifestyle changes to mitigate the rise in cases.