Using Global Burden of Disease 2021 data, substantial increases in incidence and prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias were observed in China over the past three decades, particularly among women and the oldest age groups, underscoring growing strain on family-based care systems.
Key Findings
Results
Incidence and prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias in China increased substantially over the past three decades.
Data sourced from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study.
Trends observed over approximately 30 years of data.
The increases represent an 'escalating health and social challenge' in China's rapidly aging population.
Results
Women experienced disproportionately higher increases in Alzheimer's disease and other dementias burden compared to men.
Sex-disaggregated analysis revealed women as a particularly affected group.
This pattern was identified as a notable trend within the GBD 2021 dataset for China.
The finding highlights gender as a key demographic factor in dementia burden trends.
Results
The oldest age groups showed particularly pronounced increases in dementia incidence and prevalence.
Age-stratified analysis identified the oldest age groups as experiencing the greatest increases.
This pattern aligns with China's rapidly aging population demographic shift.
The finding underscores the intersection of population aging and dementia burden escalation.
Discussion
Growing dementia burden is placing increasing strain on family-based care systems in China.
China's care model is characterized as 'family-based,' making it particularly vulnerable to dementia burden increases.
The trends highlight the need for 'integrated, age-friendly health and social policies.'
The findings are framed as 'lessons for an aging society,' suggesting broader applicability beyond China.
Wang C, Xin T, Zhong W, Tian Q, Chen L. (2026). The growing burden of Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias in China: Lessons for an aging society.. Archives of gerontology and geriatrics. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.archger.2026.106165