Dementia 'scarier than cancer' as 45% of people fear loss of independence and burden on family

• 14 JUN 2016
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• BY ANDREW GREGORY

Neurological disorders result from damage to the brain, spinal column or nerves and include multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, motor neurone disease and Parkinson’s disease

The major reasons underlying people’s fear were poor quality of life

People are more worried about getting dementia than developing cancer, a study shows. 

Developing a neurological illness is the biggest health fear for 45% of us, compared with 36% who most fear getting cancer and 2% who said coronary heart disease.

The major reasons underlying people’s fear were poor quality of life, loss of independence and the burden it might place on family.

These were of more concern than the prospect of physical pain or an accelerated death.

According to the survey, 36% fear getting cancer most

Sue Hogston, chief nurse at Sue Ryder, said: “Getting a life-limiting neurological disorder is not the end of the road, and quality care and treatment can really help people adapt and live life as fully as possible.

“We need to educate people about the symptoms, treatment and care options of different disorders.

“This will go some way to helping people and their families cope and adapt if they’re diagnosed.

It is estimated that 12.5 million people are living with a neurological disorder in England

"But it will also help reduce the stigma, embarrassment and social isolation that can exist around these conditions.”

Neurological disorders result from damage to the brain, spinal column or nerves and include multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, motor neurone disease, dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

It is estimated that 12.5 million people are living with a neurological disorder in England.

More than 600,000 people are diagnosed every year.

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/dementia-scarier-cancer-45-people-8184933