Dr. Jennifer Bute, a UK-based physician, experienced firsthand the challenges in diagnosing dementia when her neurologist misdiagnosed her condition. This personal journey has transformed her into a passionate advocate, urgently calling for increased attention and resources dedicated to dementia research and diagnosis. Her story underscores the critical need for specialized expertise in identifying and managing Alzheimer’s, highlighting the vital role of an informed Alzheimer Doctor.
Dr. Bute’s experience is a stark reminder of the growing global dementia crisis. Currently, an estimated 50 million people worldwide live with dementia, a number projected to surge to 132 million by 2050. Reflecting on the onset of her symptoms, Dr. Bute recounted: “At first it was passwords, I just couldn’t remember passwords and names. The first neurologist wouldn’t even do any tests, he said there’s nothing the matter with you. Soon after, I wouldn’t recognise people I had known for 20 years, then I started getting lost along familiar routes. That was kind of how it all started.” Her initial dismissal by a neurologist emphasizes the necessity of seeking out doctors with specialized knowledge in neurodegenerative conditions – experts equipped to be effective Alzheimer doctors.
Coinciding with World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21st, Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) released its World Alzheimer Report 2018. Dr. Bute is featured prominently in this crucial report, lending her voice to the urgent call for greater public awareness and deeper understanding of dementia. She stated, “When I was working as a doctor, very little was actually done proactively about dementia. My hope is that the World Alzheimer Report 2018 brings much needed exposure, attention and funding to what is now a global health crisis.” The report serves as a powerful platform to amplify the need for proactive approaches to dementia and emphasizes the role of dedicated Alzheimer doctors in early intervention and care.
Paola Barbarino, CEO of ADI, echoes this sentiment, advocating for a significant increase in funding for dementia research. She proposes that one percent of the societal cost of dementia should be allocated to research efforts. Barbarino asserts, “ADI is very proud to release this much needed World Alzheimer Report 2018 – The State of the art of dementia research. This report asks where we are now, why have there been no major breakthroughs in 20 years and what are the barriers to find solutions. It looks at exciting new work in the field, the new frontiers of dementia research, and it underlines our vital call for increased dementia research funding.
Dementia is one of the most significant global health and social crises in the 21st century, yet too often diagnosis is made late. There is also no cure for dementia, it’s the 7th leading cause of death worldwide.“
The underfunding of dementia research is starkly highlighted by Barbarino: “Without significant investments into dementia research, we will be unable to venture into new frontiers. The global ratio of publications on neurodegenerative disorders compared to cancer is an astonishing 1:12. Not enough people are getting into research on dementia, and that needs to change.” This disparity underscores the urgent need to encourage more medical professionals to specialize as Alzheimer doctors and dementia researchers.
“We hope that the release of the World Alzheimer Report will increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and spark a debate which will lead to more governments and businesses dedicating funds and focus to help people with dementia and their families live better lives.” Increased awareness and funding are crucial to improving the lives of those affected by dementia and supporting the work of Alzheimer doctors and researchers striving for better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
The World Alzheimer Report 2018 gathers insights from leading global experts in Alzheimer’s and dementia research, including:
- Dr. Alireza Atri, a renowned cognitive neurologist at the Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative, whose dedication is symbolized by his car registration: CUREAD.
- Professor Bart de Strooper, Director of the UK Dementia Research Institute and recipient of the 2018 Brain Prize, recognized for his work on the fundamental mechanisms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
World Alzheimer Report 2018 Cover
- Professor Gordon Wilcock, a co-founder of the UK’s Alzheimer’s Society and pioneer of multidisciplinary memory clinics, whose OPTIMA study challenged the misconception of dementia as a normal part of aging.
- Dr. Jeff Cummings, Director of the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, who highlighted the 99.6% failure rate in Alzheimer’s drug development trials between 2002 and 2012.
- Kate Bingham, Managing Partner at SV Health Managers, instrumental in creating the Dementia Discovery Fund to invest in novel dementia therapies.
- Dr. Kenji Toba, President of the National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Japan, a leading figure in developing dementia-friendly initiatives.
- Professor Adesola Ogunniyi, Professor of Medicine at University College Hospital, Ibadan, involved in projects like IDEA and the development of culturally relevant cognitive stimulation therapies in Nigeria.
These experts, along with countless other researchers and clinicians, are at the forefront of the fight against dementia. Their dedication and the insights presented in the World Alzheimer Report 2018 are crucial for driving progress in research, diagnosis, and care. Dr. Bute’s personal experience and advocacy, combined with the collective expertise highlighted in the report, underscore the urgent need for global action to address dementia and support the vital work of Alzheimer doctors worldwide.
