Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health crisis in North Carolina, and the impact of Alzheimer’s is projected to rise. A comprehensive public health approach is essential to improve community health, support the well-being of those living with cognitive decline and their families, and reduce the risk of dementia throughout communities. The most recent data show:

Fact sheets on Alzheimer's and dementia in North Carolina

View and download state-specific fact sheets for the latest data on each topic: 

Learn more about how these data are collected in the annual Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

Public health progress in North Carolina

State, local, territorial and tribal health departments are key partners in implementing a robust public health response to dementia. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is improving brain health throughout the state.

The NCDHHS created the Dementia and Brain Health Outreach and Awareness Toolkit, which is intended to increase awareness and promote education about the importance of risk reduction and early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Additionally, it has information on prevention and management of chronic conditions, avoidable hospitalizations, and the role of caregiving for people living with dementia. The toolkit was developed for local public health agencies, community-based organizations, dementia care programs, dementia-capable services within home and community-based service (HCBS) systems, community health workers, insurance companies, Alzheimer’s and other dementia advocates and other professionals.

Developing public health infrastructure and expanding capacity

Public health programs are critical to helping people stay cognitively healthy throughout life. The Wilson County Health Department in North Carolina is developing infrastructure and expanding capacity through participation in the Risk Reduction Learning Collaborative.

Resources for public health professionals

Tools from the Alzheimer's Association provide public health strategies that public health professionals can use to improve brain health and support caregivers and people living with dementia in your community.

Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) Road Map

This guidebook provides state and local public health agencies with 24 actions to act quickly and strategically to effect positive changes in policies, systems and environments.

HBI Road Map for American Indian and Alaska Native Peoples

Find 13 public health strategies to help American Indian and Alaska Native communities improve brain health, address dementia and support caregivers.

Public Health Curriculum

This curriculum is designed for public health students, educators and professionals.

Risk Reduction

Public health can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's across the lifespan by promoting being physically active, quitting smoking, and being heart-healthy.
 

Early Detection & Diagnosis

Public health professionals can educate the community and health care providers on the benefits of early detection and help reduce barriers to diagnosis.

Caregiver Support

Public health can raise awareness of caregiver needs and help develop support and resources.