Health Secretary announces dementia as one of his four key health priorities

Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt has announced improving dementia care and treatment as one of his four key priorities between now and the next general election.

Recognising that for far too long, people with dementia and their carers have not received the care and support they deserve, Mr Hunt is calling for more early diagnosis of dementia, better research and better support for carers.

The Health Secretary also wants to improve standards of care throughout the system, mortality rates for the big killer diseases and the use of technology to revolutionise the NHS.

Andrew Chidgey, director of external affairs for said: “Earlier this year, David Cameron made dementia a national priority for England. It is hugely encouraging that in just two months as Health Secretary, Jeremy Hunt has also recognised the importance of improving care for the hundreds of thousands of people living with the condition today and moving us towards a cure and better treatments in the future.

“One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. By signing up to become a Dementia Friend, people can help to make a difference where they live too. The small things they can do can make a big difference to people affected by dementia.”