ECONOMIC DISCUSSIONS
For the first time ever, Alzheimer's disease was a topic of discussion at the World Economic Forum. Dementia is a worldwide concern with an estimated 35 million people currently living with some form of dementia. These numbers are expected to increase drastically in the years to come. According to the World Alzheimer's Report, by the year 2030 the number of people living with dementia worldwide will reach 65.7 million and by the 2050, the number will reach an estimated 115.4 million. The meeting at the World Economic Forum marked an important step in preparing financially for the future. Dr. Robert N. Butler moderator of the Davos panel and CEO and President of the International Longevity Center recognizes the importance of the forum discussion. As he explains, "today's meeting of government, corporate and civil society representatives, is an important step in driving urgency to act". It is estimate that the annual cost of dementia worldwide is US$315 billion. Development of frameworks for facing the rise of Alzheimer's disease was led by Australia, England, South Korea, Norway, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and Sweden.