When nearly 14,000 researchers recently joined for the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC), the latest and greatest in Alzheimer’s and dementia research was on display. Throughout the conference, Alzheimer’s and dementia researchers presented new science on advances in diagnosis, risk reduction, treatment and more. The energy and excitement in Philadelphia, where the in-person gathering took place, and online was palpable. 

This energy, and more importantly, these advancements are possible because of record investment in Alzheimer’s and dementia research globally. Investments that have brought us to this moment — with multiple Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved treatments now available. As these treatments become more available and with the next generation of treatments on the horizon, it is critical we continue the momentum and work to ensure the health care system is ready for this new era. 

As the leading Alzheimer’s and dementia advocacy organization, AIM often brings together leaders in the field to discuss and address the challenges and opportunities in Alzheimer’s public policy, research and advocacy. During the 2024 AIM Advocacy Forum earlier this year, AIM held a session exploring these themes. AIM president Robert Egge led a panel discussion with: Alessandro Biffi, MD, of Lilly, Rachelle Doody, MD, PhD, of Baylor College of Medicine, Michael Irizarry, MD, MPH, of Eisai, patient advocate and AIM Leadership Society member Dan Jaworski, and Donna Wilcock, PhD, of the Indiana University School of Medicine.

Together, these panelists provided advocates with an inside look at where the field is today and where the research pipeline is headed in the future. Jaworski shared his perspective on the importance of research as someone living with dementia as well as risk reduction through diet and exercise, while Dr. Biffi and Dr. Irizarry from AIM Corporate Platinum Champions Lilly and Eisai, respectively, discussed the role of their companies in conducting clinical trials and research for new treatments. Dr. Doody and Dr. Wilcock emphasized the importance of academic research and cooperation between scientists to continue making new discoveries.   

Two treatments approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are available that change the progression of Alzheimer’s: Leqembi® (lecanemab, Eisai/Biogen) and Kisunla® (donanemab, Lilly). By slowing progression of the disease when taken in the early stages of Alzheimer's, these treatments can allow people to have more time to participate in daily life and live independently. Because treatments are now available, early detection and diagnosis are even more critical to ensure individuals receive the most benefit. 

While these treatments are bringing important progress to patients and their families, there are also many potential new treatments advancing in the pipeline. The Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to support promising research on treatments, diagnosis, risk reduction and care. Our knowledge and discoveries are changing the way we fight Alzheimer’s and all other dementia, but our progress must continue.

Learn more about how you can get involved with AIM in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementia.