Dementia research underfunded, former Health Minister claims

Former Care Minister Paul Burstow yesterday called for more investment in dementia research to enable scientists to find a cure and better treatments. The Liberal Democrat MP, who was speaking during a backbench debate in Parliament claimed that research into the condition was lagging behind other diseases and called for resources to be brought in line with that of cancer.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Dementia is the biggest health and social care challenge of our generation. There is still no cure and very few treatments. Despite this, there are currently 150 times fewer clinical trials being carried out on Alzheimer’s than on late stage cancer.

The commitment by the government to double funding in dementia research by 2015 was a welcome boost but we must do more if we are to make the advancements we need. As well as investment we must also look at different routes of developing treatments, including looking at whether existing drugs for other conditions could have benefits.'

Louise Lakey
Policy Manager
Alzheimer’s Society

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Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will develop with dementia
• Alzheimer’s Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer’s disease. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer’s Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer’s Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer’s Society has a plan to deal with dementia. Help us support people to live well today and fight for a world without dementia tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer’s Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk