Alzheimer's Research & Treatment A New Horizon of Hope
In recent years, Alzheimer's research has achieved unprecedented breakthroughs. From revolutionary diagnostic techniques to the first approved disease-modifying therapies, we are entering a new era of hope. This guide will take you through the latest scientific advances, treatment options, and prevention strategies.
Understanding the Disease: Beyond a Single Theory
Our understanding of Alzheimer's has evolved from a singular "amyloid hypothesis" to a complex, multi-factor model. Aβ protein, tau protein, neuroinflammation, and vascular factors intertwine in a complex network that drives the disease's progression.
Amyloid-β (Aβ)
Considered the key initiator of pathology
Tau Protein
Closely linked to cognitive decline
Neuroinflammation
An amplifier of neuronal damage
Vascular Factors
Reduces the brain's resilience
Click on any pathological factor above to see a detailed explanation.
Diagnostic Evolution: Towards Biological Precision
Diagnostics are undergoing a revolution, shifting from probable diagnoses based on clinical symptoms to definitive ones based on biomarkers. This makes it possible to detect the disease before symptoms appear, opening the door for preventive treatments.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
Using special tracers, PET scans can "visualize" amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the living brain. This technology is crucial for ruling in or out Alzheimer's pathology and is the gold standard for screening patients for new drug trials.
A New Era of Treatment: The First Disease-Modifying Therapies
The approval of Lecanemab (Leqembi) and Donanemab (Kisunla) marks a turning point in Alzheimer's treatment history. These antibody drugs clear amyloid from the brain, achieving the goal of slowing disease progression for the first time.
New Drug Comparison: Slowing of Decline vs. Major Risks
Data sourced from Clarity AD and TRAILBLAZER-ALZ 2 clinical trials. The rate of slowing is relative to the placebo group. ARIA is the main safety concern for this class of drugs.
Important Note: These drugs are only for patients in the early stages (MCI or mild dementia) with confirmed amyloid pathology.
Prevention & Wellness: Proactively Managing Brain Health
While there's no way to completely prevent Alzheimer's, growing evidence shows that lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce risk and enhance brain resilience. This empowers each of us to proactively manage our brain health.
MIND Diet
Combines Mediterranean and DASH diets, emphasizing leafy greens, berries, and nuts. High adherence can reduce risk by 53%.
Regular Aerobic Exercise
At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, like brisk walking or swimming. Can reduce dementia risk by nearly 60%.
Cognitive Stimulation
"Use it or lose it." Engaging in challenging mental activities like learning new things and socializing can reduce risk by nearly 50%.
The Taiwan Context: Challenges & Local Efforts
Taiwan is actively addressing the challenge of dementia, demonstrating a comprehensive strategy from national policy and new drug adoption to localized research and patient support.
Dementia Prevalence in Taiwan Over 65 (by Age)
Source: 2020-2023 National Survey
New Drug Accessibility
Both Lecanemab and Donanemab have been approved by the Taiwan FDA, but as of late 2024, are not yet covered by National Health Insurance. The high out-of-pocket cost is a major challenge for patients.
Local Support System
The Taiwan Alzheimer's Disease Association (TADA) provides comprehensive support services and is a vital resource for patients and families. For assistance, call the national dementia care hotline: 0800-474-580.
The Future: Precision Medicine & Combination Therapies
Anti-amyloid drugs are just the first step. Future treatments will move towards "cocktail therapies," combining drugs targeting tau, inflammation, and more, tailored to individual biomarkers for precision treatment.
The ultimate goal is to effectively prevent or treat Alzheimer's through a combination of lifestyle management and personalized drug cocktails. Recent breakthroughs are not the end, but a decisive step toward this future.