Alzheimer's Disease in Illinois: Analyzing Disparities and Projected Trends

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a growing public health issue disproportionately affecting adults 65 years and older as well as women. This growing trend is accompanied by rising economic, social, emotional, and physical costs, both for patients and their caregivers. As the U.S. population ages, understanding disparities in AD prevalence by gender and age has become increasingly important, particularly in high-burden states like Illinois. This review focuses on gender and age disparities in AD, with a specific emphasis on Illinois. It integrates national and global trends with state-specific projections and explores modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors that may contribute to these disparities. We analyzed projections from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Alzheimer’s Association to assess AD prevalence by gender and age across Illinois’ 102 counties from 2020 to 2030. Rates were compared with U.S. and global trends. Risk factors such as diabetes, education, access to care, and socioeconomic status were reviewed in the context of these disparities. Women consistently show higher AD prevalence across all regions and age groups. The greatest increase in cases is projected among adults aged 75 to 84 years, particularly in regions with higher female populations and social vulnerability. If unaddressed, risk factors like lower education, rural residency, and limited healthcare access may worsen these disparities. Addressing age and gender disparities in AD requires focused public health efforts that combine early screening, caregiver support and regional resource allocation. Illinois serves as a case study for targeted interventions applicable to broader national strategies.