Alzheimer’s Disease: Key Figures in France and Worldwide

Alzheimer’s Disease: Key Figures in France and Worldwide

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions worldwide. Beyond the medical challenges, it impacts patients, families, and caregivers, highlighting the need for awareness, early detection, and support systems.

Key Figures in France

• In 2015, over 900,000 people in France were living with Alzheimer’s disease (source: Fondation Recherche sur Alzheimer).

• Approximately 225,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.

• By 2020, an estimated 3 million people in France were affected either as patients or caregivers.

• 1,275,000 people were expected to have Alzheimer’s disease, and 1 in 4 French people over 65 would be affected.

• Women are disproportionately affected, representing two-thirds of patients.

• A new case is diagnosed every 3 minutes, over 600 per day, yet only 1 in 2 patients are diagnosed, and 1 in 3 diagnoses occur at an early stage.

Symptoms

According to INSERM (National Institute of Health and Medical Research), Alzheimer’s disease involves a slow degeneration of neurons, beginning in the hippocampus and eventually affecting the whole brain. The main symptoms include:

• Memory loss, particularly short-term memory

• Impaired orientation in time and space

• Decline in cognitive abilities and autonomy

While rare before 65, age remains the main risk factor. After 65, 2–4% of the population is affected, rising to 15% after age 80. Genetic and individual predispositions also play a role.

Interestingly, about 32,000 patients in France are under 60, prompting initiatives like Espoir Alzheimer, which created the first dedicated care center for younger patients in Cesson, Seine-et-Marne.

Raising Awareness and Promoting Research

Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, although some symptoms can be managed. This underscores the importance of research and public awareness.

Events such as the Village Alzheimer (Place de la Bataille-de-Stalingrad, Paris) bring together medical professionals, volunteers, families, students, and the public to provide information and foster engagement.

Associations Supporting Alzheimer’s Patients

In France:

• France Alzheimer et maladies apparentées: Nearly 100 departmental associations.

• Fédération Médéric Alzheimer: Foundation dedicated to Alzheimer’s disease.

• Association pour la recherche sur Alzheimer: Focused on clinical research.

• Espoir Alzheimer: Supports young patients and their families.

• Association Aide & Répit: Helps patients remain at home longer; runs a free training school for caregivers (EFPAP).

In Europe:

• Alzheimer Europe: Network of 37 associations in 32 countries.

• Fondation Vaincre Alzheimer: Promotes scientific research and public awareness.

Art and Awareness

A notable example is the music video “L’Absence”, directed by Charles Dewulf. The song tells the story of Charlotte Musi’s grandmother, illustrating the “disease of forgetting life.” It powerfully portrays solitude while showing family connections and personal engagement, making it an emotionally impactful tool for raising awareness.

Conclusion

Alzheimer’s disease remains a major public health challenge, affecting patients, families, and society. Awareness campaigns, research funding, support networks, and creative initiatives all play a vital role in improving care, promoting early diagnosis, and maintaining the dignity and quality of life for those affected.