Issue 1/2026
Prof. Dr. Sh. Mehrabian-Spasova1,2, MD, Assoc. Prof. M. Raycheva1,2, MD, K. Stoyanova, Psychologist1,2, Dr. I. D. Popivanov1,2,3, Acad. Prof. Dr. L. Traykov1,2, MD
1 University Hospital „Aleksandrovska“ – Sofia
2 Medical University – Sofia
3 New Bulgarian University – Sofia
Dementia, the most severe form of cognitive impairment, is the leading cause of disability in older people and currently affects nearly 50 million people worldwide. Early-onset dementia (EOD) refers to any dementia where symptoms appear before the age of 65 and is distinct from childhood dementia, which is often diagnosed at the age of 14 or earlier. EOD accounts for around 5% of all dementias, with an estimated incidence of 119 per 100,000. The latest figures from the 2022 General Practitioners in England database on registered dementia show that 3.4% of all people with dementia are currently aged under 65. However, this does not reflect the number of people diagnosed with EOD as it does not include those who are already over 65. There are many more people living with the diagnosis for many years.
Address for correspondence:
University Hospital “Aleksandrovska”,
Department of Psychiatry
1, “St. G. Sofiyski”, Blvd.
1431, Sofia