SWINDON mum Amanda Franks has spoken out about the devastating impact of dementia after figures revealed one in three babies born this year will develop the disease.

Earlier this week Alzheimer's Research UK warned 27 per cent of boys and 37 per cent of girls born in 2015 will develop the condition during their lifetime as people live longer.

Amanda's mum Cathy was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's - the most common form of dementia - six years ago, and supports the charity's urge for greater efforts across the globe to develop new treatments.

"My mum was only 58 when she was diagnosed," she said.

"Up until then, we had no idea this devastating disease could affect someone so young.

"Simple day-to-day tasks like making a cup of tea, getting dressed and eating soon became a huge challenge for mum.

"Dad cared for her at home with family help for five years, by which time things were getting out of hand with her violent behaviour and hallucinations - life became extremely stressful.

"As a mum myself, I would dearly love to see preventions and new treatments found to defeat Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, giving hope to people now and future generations."

Dementia affects 850,000 people in the UK, resulting in the loss of brain cells.

Early symptoms include problems with memory and thinking. As the disease progresses, people can experience difficulty with walking, balance and swallowing.

Alzheimer's Research UK said age was the biggest risk factor for developing dementia.

Dr Matthew Norton, head of policy at Alzheimer's Research UK, said: "It's wonderful news that each generation is living longer than the last, but it's important to ensure that people can enjoy these extra years in good health.

"Dementia is our greatest medical challenge and, if we are to beat it, we must invest in research to find new treatments and preventions."

The research published to mark World Alzheimer's Day on September 21, was commissioned by Alzheimer's Research UK and carried out by the Office of Health Economics.

The analysis took into account life expectancy estimates for people born in 2015, as well as estimates of dementia incidence in men and women of different ages.

George McNamara, head of policy at the Alzheimer's Society said: "Dementia is already the biggest health challenge this country faces. It costs the UK in excess of £26 billion, which equates to £30,000 per person with dementia - more than the cost of either cancer or heart disease. Today's stark finding should galvanise the Government and us all into action. "

To find out more about Alzheimer's Research UK, visit www.alzheimersresearchuk.org. For more on the Alzheimer's Society visit www.alzheimers.org.uk