Geneva– Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) has issued a stark warning ahead of the 78th World Health Assembly: the world is facing a growing dementia crisis, and urgent action is needed. Despite a global commitment made in 2017, only 23% of WHO Member States have implemented a national dementia plan.

In its latest report, From Plan to Impact VIII: Time to Deliver, ADI urges governments to extend the WHO Global Action Plan on dementia to 2031 and accelerate funding and policy implementation. With dementia cases expected to nearly triple by 2030, affecting 78 million people, ADI emphasizes the need for national plans that ensure access to diagnostics, new treatments, and long-term care.

The call comes as WHO faces funding shortfalls following the withdrawal of major contributors like the United States. ADI warns that without continued global coordination, millions living with dementia risk being left behind.

“Dementia is everyone’s business,” said ADI CEO Paola Barbarino. “We must not lose momentum—governments and civil society must act now.”

The full report will be launched at the World Health Assembly on May 21, featuring a high-level panel with WHO officials, global health leaders, and advocates.