Understanding the challenge
By 2050, the number of people affected by dementia is projected to reach 152 million worldwide (Reference 1). In Australia, it is estimated that 400,000 people live with dementia, and 70% of the diagnosed cases have Alzheimer’s disease (AD, Reference 2)
The role of diagnostics
With an ageing population and increasing prevalence of dementia in Australia, it is becoming more urgent that dementia is detected early.
Confirming a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is important and often a relief for the individual and their loved ones. Receiving a diagnosis early enables patients to make changes to their diet and lifestyles which may slow the decline in their cognitive functions (Reference 1).
Advances in diagnostic pathways make earlier detection and intervention feasible. At Roche Diagnostics Australia, we are focussed on bringing to market the assays that empower GPs to become more active in an area of aged care previously perceived as specialist-only will form a part of future approaches to the disease.
Educational resources
Recognising this significant burden of disease caused by dementia, Roche Diagnostics Australia has held a number of educational webinars and events on the topic of dementia. Recordings can be accessed in the related articles section below.
Reference 1 - Alzhiemer’s research UK [internet; cited 2022 July] Available from:https://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/worldwide-dementia-cases-to-triple-by-2050/#:~:text=The%20researchers%20suggest%20that%20the,Africa%20and%20the%20Middle%20east.
Reference 2 - AIHW 2021 www.aihw.gov.au/reports/australias-health/dementia [Last Accessed: 28/06/2022]
