World Alzheimer's Day 2021

Dear Colleagues,

We have all seen the statistics:

• There are an estimated 50 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias
• Current projections put this number upwards of 150 million by 2050

While research shows early diagnosis can mean early treatment options; stigma, misdiagnosis and misinformation remain commonplace. It is for this reason that Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) has set their 2021 theme as “Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer's” raising awareness around the early signs of dementia and encouraging people “to seek out information, advice, support and potentially a diagnosis.”

The International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA) publishes numerous academic articles, reports, editorials and research papers around Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias every year. This 29 September will be a brand-new webinar entitled "Screening Early for Dementia: What are the Risks and Benefits?" where an international panel will share three trans-cultural viewpoints as to whether early screening is warranted even before symptoms become evident. Click the link above for more information and to get registered.

We must not forget however the importance of raising public awareness as well. This 21 September, we call once again on our members and colleagues to join us in supporting World Alzheimer’s Day. Click here to see the resource materials created by ADI. And their World Alzheimer Report 2021 is now available in PDF form.

Manabu Ikeda, MD, PhD IPA President Elect Chair, IPA Advocacy Committee

Kiran Rabheru, MD, CCFP, FRCP, DABPN IPA Board of Directors Co-Chair, IPA Advocacy Committee