INCIDENCE of dementia is likely to rise by more than a third in the next 15 years in Halton.
The figures were revealed in research for the Alzheimer's Society carried out by the London School of Economics and King's College London.
In Runcorn and Widnes the number of cases is expected to soar by 38%.
In Warrington, it could be an increase of 43%, while St Helens cases will rise by 30%.
Maggie Williams, north region director of the Alzheimer's Society, said the future treatment of dementia had to be a 'priority'.
Dr John Rigby, consultant psychologist and clinical director of older people's mental health services for Merseycare NHS Trust, said: 'The increase in dementia is part of a general trend as we become a more ageing population.'
