David Ruffley MP is concerned about the increasing difficulties of caring for patients with dementia within Suffolk Primary Care Trust (Suffolk PCT).

Revealing new figures, David Ruffley said: 'There are 3,235 people suffering from dementia across the Suffolk PCT which is one of the highest rates in the country (Suffolk comes 17th out of 151 PCTs).

Alzheimer's disease has a devastating effect on people's lives- patients, carers and their families. There are now recommended treatments available that will benefit their condition and it is essential that the local trusts work with patients to ensure they have the best treatment available.

Despite having one of the highest rates of dementia, currently only 1.4% of the Suffolk PCT budget is currently being spent on dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Suffolk has one of the highest proportions of individuals over the age of 65: 19% of the population (23rd out of 151 PTCs). I am concerned that an ageing population means that the burden of care will increase as subsequently the estimated annual cost of treating the full spectrum of Alzheimer's will increase by £272,950 this year in Suffolk.

I have written to the Chief Executive of Suffolk PCT, Dr Paul Watson, to find out what measures are being taken to ensure that Suffolk patients with dementia are being given the best possible treatment.'