Alzheimer’s disease is a serious issue in the UK, with dementia being the biggest killer and the leading cause of death for women since 2011. Hilary Evans, CEO of Alzheimer’s Research UK, highlights the importance of early diagnosis for effective treatment. She notes that one in two people will be affected by dementia in some way, either by caring for someone with the condition or developing it themselves.
There have been significant breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s research, with new drugs like donanemab and lecanemab showing promising results in slowing cognitive decline. These drugs act as antibodies, clearing the amyloid plaques that form in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. While these first-generation treatments have modest benefits and serious side effects, they pave the way for more effective drugs in the future.
Evans emphasizes the need for timely and accurate diagnosis, as new treatments will rely on identifying the disease early on. Unfortunately, the current methods of diagnosis, such as pen-and-paper cognitive tests, are inadequate. Only 2 percent of patients undergo the gold standard test, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
To improve diagnosis, researchers are exploring new methods such as digital cognitive tests and AI algorithms that can screen for signs of Alzheimer’s disease in the eye. Blood biomarkers are also being studied as a potential non-invasive tool for diagnosing dementia. These advancements could revolutionize the way dementia is diagnosed and ensure that patients receive timely care.
Despite the challenges, Evans remains optimistic about the future of Alzheimer’s research. With over 140 clinical trials underway for potential treatments, she believes that safer and more effective drugs are on the horizon. By addressing the issue of early diagnosis and improving access to innovative diagnostic tools, the healthcare system can better support individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease.
