Alzheimer's remains the main health concern for the Spanish population (68%), very close to cancer (72%). In addition, It is still perceived as the main health problem for older people (78%), far ahead of other diseases such as stroke (35%) or Parkinson's (35%). These data come from the “Study of the social perception of Alzheimer's in Spain”, which we have presented at the Ramón Areces Foundation and prepared within the framework of the Alzheimer's and Dementia Observatory, an initiative we are promoting in collaboration with Novo Nordisk.
Likewise, and in line with other studies by the Foundation, the impact of the disease on society remains: Two out of three Spaniards know someone in their immediate circle who suffers from Alzheimer's.
The study also highlights a high level of ignorance and misinformation about the risk factors for Alzheimer's. The population does not recognize the importance of modifiable factors such as stress (15%), an unhealthy diet (12%) the excessive alcohol consumption (11%) or the insomnia (10%). This aspect is relevant in the current context since it is estimated that, by targeting 14 modifiable risk factors throughout life, up to 45% cases of dementia could be prevented or delayed.
He Dr. Arcadi Navarro, director of the Foundation, He opened the event by highlighting that "This study demonstrates the need to move toward a new prioritization of Alzheimer's in Spain. Much work remains to be done in essential areas such as biomedical, social, and healthcare research, early diagnosis, comprehensive care for those affected, and support for caregivers, especially family members who perform this role."
Healthcare system capacities
The survey data also highlight the need to strengthen the role of the healthcare system in addressing this disease. The 70% of those surveyed believe that public health in Spain is not prepared to care for patients with Alzheimer's, a 25% considers it ready, and only a 4% very ready.
Additionally, the data show that early diagnosis of Alzheimer's is a priority for the Spanish population: 9 out of 10 people say they would take a test to determine the presence of the disease in mild and asymptomatic stages.. In addition, the surveyed population indicates the Early detection and diagnosis as the main priority in addressing Alzheimer's (76%).
In reference to these data, Dr. Navarro has commented that "It is necessary to increase the health system's capacity to care for people with Alzheimer's and to detect cases of cognitive decline early. Early diagnosis increases the chances of more effective treatment and reduces healthcare costs." He also added that "Two major advances will open a new era in the diagnosis and treatment of early-stage Alzheimer's: the development of blood biomarkers that will allow early diagnosis and the development of drugs that could modify its progression."
More research and public funding for new treatments
91% of respondents support an increase in the public budget allocated to Alzheimer's research., and the 92% supports public funding for new treatments. The arrival of disease-modifying drugs opens a promising avenue for addressing Alzheimer's disease. Currently, 164 clinical trials are evaluating 127 drugs related to this condition.
The data have been presented by Eva Nevot, Director of Advocacy and Institutional Relations at the Foundation, who has highlighted that "All these results are a tool that allows us to analyze in more detail the perceptions, attitudes, and opinions of Spanish citizens regarding Alzheimer's and its management, and a guide that helps us understand the reality of the disease and work toward achieving our goal: a future without Alzheimer's."
The full report can be consulted here.
