Alzheimer's disease: New therapies and the need for early diagnosis

Medical experts are highlighting a new era in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, driven by the emergence of disease-modifying therapies that target the underlying mechanisms of the condition rather than just managing symptoms. These new treatments can slow disease progression but are only effective for patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia, making early diagnosis critical.

In Poland, epidemiological estimates suggest approximately 618,000 people suffer from various forms of dementia, with Alzheimer's accounting for 60–70% of cases. However, only about 130,000 patients are currently receiving registered and reimbursed medications, indicating a significant gap in diagnosis and healthcare access. Projections suggest that by 2050, the number of seniors with dementia could exceed 1.7 million.

Additionally, medical professionals are noting the importance of recognizing early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD), which affects individuals before age 65. While EOAD accounts for 5–10% of all cases, it is often sporadic and influenced by environmental factors, though rare genetic mutations in the PSEN1, PSEN2, and APP genes can lead to a 100% risk of inheritance in specific familial cases.