On World Alzheimer’s Day, the significance of timely diagnosis for early dementia was underscored, highlighting the need for effective screening and treatment options. A recent survey conducted by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) involving 40,000 people across 166 countries revealed that many individuals are unaware of available dementia testing methods. In response to this need, Hamid Sohrabi has developed the McCusker Subjective Cognitive Impairment Inventory (McSCI-S), a new screening test designed to assess cognitive changes over a two-year period. This test is currently being released in China and aims to facilitate early detection of dementia risk, allowing for timely support and treatment options [c255e9f0].
In addition to new screening methods, advancements in treatment have also emerged. The FDA approved donanemab in June 2024, a drug that has been shown to slow cognitive decline by 35% over 18 months. This drug, along with lecanemab, targets amyloid plaques in the brain, which are associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Donanemab is administered every four weeks, while lecanemab is given every two weeks. However, concerns regarding the availability and cost of these drugs persist, with donanemab priced at over £20,000 annually in the UK. Critics have raised issues about the high production costs and potential side effects associated with these treatments [c255e9f0].
The societal cost of dementia was reported to exceed $1.3 trillion in 2019, emphasizing the urgent need for effective interventions. The combination of innovative screening tests and new treatment options presents a dual approach to combating the growing challenge of dementia, potentially improving outcomes for patients and their families. As the number of individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease continues to rise, these advancements could play a crucial role in managing the disease more effectively [c255e9f0].