Urgent Action Needed to Address Diagnostic Gaps for Alzheimer's Disease Across Europe

Addressing Alzheimer's Diagnostic Gaps in Europe

Introduction

At the recent Alzheimer Europe Conference held in Brussels, Eli Lilly and Company, alongside prominent experts in Alzheimer's disease (AD), emphasized the pressing need to enhance diagnostic pathways for patients across Europe. With new therapeutic innovations on the horizon, it is vital that patients have timely access to these treatments, which can significantly improve their quality of life.

The Current State of Alzheimer's Diagnosis

A multinational survey, part of the Adelphi Real World Dementia Disease Specific Programme™, revealed alarming statistics regarding the diagnostic rates of Alzheimer's disease. Currently, approximately 6.9 million individuals are affected by AD in Europe—a figure projected to nearly double by 2050 due to an aging population. Despite this, Alzheimer’s remains critically underdiagnosed, with patients often missing the window for effective treatment options.

Key Barriers Identified

The survey sheds light on several systemic barriers that contribute to these delays:

1. Limited Access to Biomarker Testing: While over 70% of specialists acknowledge the importance of biomarker testing for accurate early diagnosis, only about 15.2% of patients actually receive these vital tests. This shortfall is particularly pronounced in Germany and the UK, where testing rates are the lowest.

2. Delayed Specialist Referrals: The average time from a primary care physician's referral to a specialist diagnosis can take upwards of five months. In countries like Spain and France, patients experience even longer wait durations, further complicating their access to necessary care.

3. Stigma and Lack of Awareness: Notably, 61% of surveyed specialists pointed out that stigma surrounding Alzheimer's disease prevents early help-seeking. Many individuals delay consultations, often overwhelmed by misconceptions about cognitive impairment versus normal aging processes. This stigma contributes to delays that can critically impact treatment.

Need for Action

As Professor Lutz Frölich noted, we are at a turning point in the management of Alzheimer's disease in Europe. Timely and equitable access to diagnosis can drastically alter the trajectory of AD care. With emerging therapies showing promising results that parallel treatments for conditions like cancer and multiple sclerosis, priority must be given to enhancing care models and funding systems to bridge the gap in diagnostic access.

Jean Georges, Executive Director of Alzheimer Europe, emphasized the need for urgent recognition of Alzheimer’s as a policy priority. Solutions must include increasing public awareness, combating stigma, enhancing medical training for primary care providers, and increasing the availability of specialists to meet growing demands.

Dr. Stéphane Epelbaum, from Eli Lilly, reinforced the importance of early detection, for approximately one-third of individuals in the early symptomatic stages will transition to more advanced clinical stages within a year.

Conclusion

Eli Lilly, with over 35 years dedicated to Alzheimer's research, is committed to reshaping the future of AD care through collaboration and innovation. As we face an escalating public health challenge, now is the time for decisive action to ensure that individuals living with Alzheimer's disease receive the care and support they need. By improving diagnostic pathways and fostering a proactive healthcare environment, we can turn the tide against Alzheimer’s and provide hope to millions.

For more information, visit Lilly's official website and stay updated on the latest advancements in Alzheimer's care.