PEOPLE concerned about memory loss have been urged to speak to their GP after new figures showed a rise in the number of people being diagnosed with dementia.

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The number of patients on the dementia register in Suffolk and Essex went up by 899 in 2011 from the previous year, although nearly two thirds of sufferers are still thought to be undiagnosed.

The new figures published today by the Alzheimer’s Society show that the number of people registered as suffering from dementia in Suffolk went from 3,235 in 2010 to 3,452 last year.

In Essex the figure went up from 7,973 to 8,655 in the same period.

The Alzheimer’s Society says there are more than 20,000 people in the two counties who are living with the condition but are not receiving any of the benefits, drug treatments and support that comes from receiving a diagnosis.

Paul Dunnery, the charity’s area manager for East Anglia, said: “Well over half of people that are living with dementia still don’t have a diagnosis in East Anglia and Central and so aren’t receiving the support, benefits and the medical treatments that are often available. We have seen an increase over the last year, but there is still a long way to go.

“Everyone is a little bit forgetful now and again, but when memory loss starts to interfere with your daily life it is important to get it checked out as soon as possible. The sooner people are diagnosed, the sooner they can get support and start planning for the future.”

Early signs of dementia that should prompt a GP visit include struggling to remember recent events, despite being able to recall things that happened in the past, and finding it difficult to follow conversations or television programmes.

People feeling anxious, depressed or angry about forgetfulness or struggling to remember the names of friends or everyday objects should see their GP and those having difficulty making decisions or struggling to recall things they have read, seen or heard should also take action.

People who are worried about their memory can also speak to the Alzheimer’s Society by calling 0845 300 0336.

For more details visit www.alzheimers.org.uk.