Breakthroughs in Dementia

We all hope for a cure for dementia. It can be one of the cruelest of diseases, slowly removing memory, thought processing ability, language and eventually basic functions such as movement. Dementia not only affects older individuals but can affect those younger than 65, so-called Younger Onset Dementia (YOD). In recent times much research has centred around finding ways to diagnose different forms of dementia at an earlier stage, and to institute treatments that may slow the progression, if not treat the diseases themselves. There have been many leads in research but unfortunately few definite breakthroughs. Some of the latest research does seem promising however. The antibody drug aducanumab has been associated with an apparent reduction in abnormal amyloid protein found within the brains of Alzheimer’s disease sufferers. Though the work is at an early stage, we all remain hopeful or an emerging treatment in the fight against dementia. Watch this space.