Alzheimer’s Rates by Country 2025

Alzheimer’s Disease is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder. It progresses over time and is characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes, caused by abnormal protein buildup in the brain. In this article, we’ll refer to Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias by using a convention of an umbrella term “Alzheimer’s.”

Top 10 Countries with the Most Alzheimers

Top 8 Country Highlights

1. Japan

The country with the highest rate of Alzheimer’s Disease is Japan. There are 2,637 cases of Alzheimer’s for every 100,000 people in this country. These numbers and statistics put Japan in the extremely high occurrence and high prevalence range for the disease. Interestingly, females are much more likely to have Alzheimer’s in Japan than males. In 2020, approximately 574,000 females and 220,000 males were receiving treatment for Alzheimer’s disease. This disparity is largely attributed to women’s longer life expectancy, as the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases with age.

2. Italy

Italy has 2,387 Alzheimer’s disease cases for every 100,000 people, making it the country with the second highest rate of this disorder globally. Italy’s high rate of Alzheimer’s can be traced to its aging population, better medical testing, increasing consumption of processed foods, and even environmental factors like pollution.

3. Germany

Another European country ranks high on our list regarding Alzheimer’s Disease prevalence in the world. In Germany, there are 2,337 cases of Alzheimer’s Disease for every 100,000 people. High rates of Alzheimer’s in Germany can be attributed to its aging population, as the country has one of the highest proportions of elderly individuals in Europe, combined with increasing awareness and diagnostic capabilities that lead to more cases being identified.

4. Greece

Greece ranks fourth on the list of countries with the most Alzheimer’s Disease cases, with 2,088 cases for every 100,000 people. While the traditional Mediterranean diet in Greece, with plenty of fruits, veggies, olive oil, and fish, is great for brain health, more people are shifting toward processed foods and sugary treats. Favorites like pastries and desserts, loaded with refined sugars, can lead to health issues like inflammation and higher risks for Alzheimer’s over time.

5. Monaco

In Monaco, there are 2,031 Alzheimer’s disease cases for every 100,000 people. This country ranks fifth on the list of countries with the most Alzheimer’s disease cases. In Monaco, people live some of the longest lives in the world, which is amazing—but it also means they’re more likely to face age-related issues like Alzheimer’s. Even with top-notch healthcare, simply living longer increases the chances of developing this condition.

6. Portugal

Portugal has one of the highest rates of Alzheimer’s Disease, with 1,915 cases for every 100,000 people. In Portugal, Alzheimer’s is more common as the population ages, and lifestyle plays a big role. While traditional meals with fresh, healthy ingredients can help, more people are turning to processed foods, which aren’t as good for brain health. On top of that, in some areas, it’s harder to catch the disease early due to limited resources and awareness.

7. San Marino

Another European country is featured on our list. San Marino ranked 7th among countries with the most cases of Alzheimer’s Disease. In this country, there are 1,847 cases for every 100,000 people. In San Marino, people live long, healthy lives, thanks to great healthcare, but that also means more people are affected by Alzheimer’s as they age. Being a small country, they may not always have access to the latest treatments or specialized care. On the bright side, close family bonds often mean that those with Alzheimer’s get plenty of support from loved ones.

8. Sweden

Rounding out the list of top eight countries is Sweden, with 1,787 Alzheimer’s Disease cases for every 100,000 people. In Sweden, people live long lives, and the excellent healthcare system means Alzheimer’s is more likely to be diagnosed. However, the long, dark winters can make it harder for older adults to stay active and socially connected, which can affect brain health. The good news is that Sweden invests a lot in research and elder care, helping families support loved ones with the disease.