World Alzheimer's Congress 2000 Ends on Hopeful Note

Alzheimer's Association
Tuesday, 18 July 2000

The first ever global conference on Alzheimer's disease, World Alzheimer Congress 2000, concluded this afternoon, with key organizers calling for more action in the war against the disease.

Nearly 5,000 of the world's leading Alzheimer researchers, physicians, healthcare professionals and other experts gathered for 10 days to discuss the latest information about Alzheimer research, treatment and caregiving and strategies to eliminate the disease, which now affects 12 million people around the world.

"Leaders from all over the world are paying attention to our cause and pledging resources to our efforts," said Edward Truschke, president and CEO of the Alzheimer's Association (U.S.A.). "My hope is that U.S. President Bill Clinton is only the first of many world leaders who will direct additional dollars to Alzheimer research and programs that will aid families currently struggling to care and treat this disease."

Earlier this week, President Clinton announced that the National Institutes of Health, through the National Institute on Aging, is dedicating $50 million in new funding for research on Alzheimer prevention and treatment in the United States.

"We cannot afford to let this issue fade away. The world is watching and waiting.

While the pace of Alzheimer research is accelerating and there are many promising findings, we are still in a race against time as people from around the world live longer and face a greater risk of getting this disease. We can keep Alzheimer's from becoming the epidemic of the new century and we will defeat it. But only if we continue to work together," said Truschke.

Worldwide, the number of people with Alzheimer's disease is projected to increase to 22 million by 2025 and to 45 million by 2050. Alzheimer's disease is a fatal, degenerative disease that attacks the brain and results in impaired memory, thinking and behavior. As the disease progresses, it becomes so severe that it interferes with an individual's daily functioning and eventually results in death.

Eric Tangalos, M.D., chair of the program committee for the "Bridging Research and Care" program at the Congress, noted that it was vital to incorporate physicians into the meeting.

"This was the first-ever program designed for physicians who are dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by Alzheimer's disease was included in an international conference," said Tangalos. "More than 500 people responded by participating. This was an important step. We cannot successfully diagnose, treat or educate individuals and families if we don't work closely with doctors.

"And, as research advances continue and new treatments become available, all of us must continue to engage physicians in our communities to truly have an impact on treatment and care worldwide," said Tangalos.

Linda Wright, R.N., M.P.A., chair of the planning committee for the "Creative Care" portion of the conference, noted that 1,500 professional and family caregivers were able to share information about diverse care approaches and hands-on care techniques from around the world.

"I have been inspired by your ingenuity; moved by your passion; and yet, a bit frustrated that despite all the advances in research and care, we are still struggling to do enough for our families," said Wright.

"Perhaps that is what keeps us passionate and connected. I know it is what motivates us to push forward together. I'd like to thank all of you for what you do to help families. Your commitment is strong and you are making a difference in the world."

World Alzheimer Congress 2000 was co-hosted by the Alzheimer's Association, (U.S.A.), Alzheimer's Disease International and Alzheimer Society of Canada.

For more information, or to contact Alzheimer's Association, see their website at: www.alz.org