![[Immune system in action]](http://cdn1.medicalnewstoday.com/content/images/articles/316/316129/immune-system-in-action.jpg)
Conditions where the immune system attacks healthy cells might increase dementia risk.
Dementias are a range of conditions, the most prevalent of which is Alzheimer's. They are characterized by a progressive loss of memory function and other cognitive skills, eventually leading to an inability to perform everyday activities.
Currently, an estimated 47.5 million people are living with dementia, worldwide.