We need to do all we can to raise money for dementia research. This was the lesson powerfully delivered to us this week by Sara Grix, regional fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Research UK.
The statistics are frightening. At least one million people in the UK are estimated to be living with dementia at the present time, and the burden on the taxpayer in care costs is expected to rise this year from £25 billion to £45 billion. Since 2011 dementia has been our leading cause of death.
There is currently no cure for the condition, which arises from changes in the brain occurring up to 30 years before the symptoms show.
Diagnosis is sluggish, relying on expensive brain scans or lumbar punctures. In England only 62% of cases are diagnosed. In Scotland the figure drops to 29%. Armed with a diagnosis, there is little that can be done other than to prescribe drugs to alleviate symptoms such as depression, and to offer therapies and other support while the condition worsens.
Into this grim picture steps the charity Alzheimer’s Research UK, with a mission to fund the research necessary if we are to see a world free of the harm, heartbreak and fear that dementia causes in households.
Recent research has come up with important results and a cure may now be within reach.
70 risk genes have been identified. It is now known that the build up of proteins in the brain which is the primary cause of the condition can be successfully controlled and reversed. The key will be to diagnose and cure the disease before symptoms show. There are currently 40 experimental drugs in phase 3 of clinical trials. Research is required to eliminate serious side effects. Artificial intelligence is likely to be an important aid.
Funds have been allocated to produce a simple diagnostic blood test. The charity has put £210 million into regional universities focusing research on treatment, diagnosis and prevention.
Sara told us that for every dementia researcher, we fund four others to work on cancer. We need to step up. £60.00 will fund a researcher for an hour. £60,000 will fund a researcher for a year.
We are pleased to learn that five Leeds Rotary Clubs are arranging a sponsored 5k walk at Temple Newsom on Sunday 1 September, starting at 12.00 noon.
Put the date in the diary and let’s do our bit – it may be too late for us, but of huge benefit to future generations.