Currently, a definitive cure for dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and its related forms, remains elusive. For those impacted by dementia in the UK, existing pharmaceutical interventions are primarily focused on symptom management. These treatments do not target the underlying causes of the diseases that lead to dementia and, consequently, do not alter the progressive nature of the condition.
However, the field of dementia research is experiencing a period of significant advancement. There is a growing consensus that breakthroughs are within reach, and the key to accelerating progress lies in increased financial investment, collaborative research initiatives, and greater participation in clinical studies. The promise of simple blood tests for early Alzheimer’s detection and the development of novel drugs capable of slowing the progression of early-stage Alzheimer’s are becoming increasingly tangible possibilities.
The global research and development pipeline for Alzheimer’s disease is robust, with 127 different drugs currently undergoing evaluation in 164 clinical trials. Notably, Lecanemab and Donanemab represent a new class of medications that have demonstrated the potential to slow cognitive and memory decline in individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. In August 2024, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK granted conditional approval for Lecanemab for specific individuals with early Alzheimer’s, acknowledging its benefits and safety profile. Conversely, draft guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) initially did not recommend Lecanemab for routine NHS use, citing concerns regarding clinical and cost-effectiveness. A similar decision was reached in October 2024 concerning Donanemab, with NICE and MHRA both agreeing against its recommendation for NHS use at this stage due to similar clinical and economic considerations.
It’s important to recognize that current breakthroughs are built upon decades of research, including studies funded by organizations like the Alzheimer’s Society 30 years ago. Continued investment in research today is crucial to paving the way for future discoveries and more effective interventions.
Despite the profound impact of dementia and its widespread prevalence, research into this condition remains significantly underfunded, and there is a critical shortage of specialized dementia researchers. Decades of inadequate funding have resulted in dementia research lagging behind cancer research by an estimated 20 years. Government funding for dementia research in 2019/20 was approximately 2.5 times less than that allocated to cancer research.
The National Dementia Mission, the government’s pledge to double dementia research funding to £160 million by 2024, is a vital commitment that must be fulfilled urgently. This increased investment is essential to accelerate research across all types of dementia, ensuring that no individual affected by these conditions is overlooked in the pursuit of effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure. Just as technology plays a crucial role in car diagnosis, identifying and addressing complex issues within vehicles, technological advancements are similarly pivotal in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of dementia, offering new avenues for understanding and combating this challenging condition.
