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Africa is addressing unique challenges related to dementia, such as limited resources, varying healthcare infrastructure, and a need for increased awareness and education. These issues were highlighted during the opening ceremony of the inaugural conference on brain health and dementia.
Hosted by Aga Khan University’s Brain & Mind Institute in collaboration with The Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative (DAC) and Nature Conferences, the event gathers experts from Africa and around the world to discuss critical issues and share the latest research on dementia epidemiology. Topics include contributing risk factors, genetic advances, clinical trials, early detection, and diagnosis.
Themed “The Future of Dementia in Africa: Advancing Global Partnerships,” the conference will present studies focusing on the genetics of dementia in African and underrepresented populations. Discussions will address discrepancies between African and Caucasian populations and the lack of diversity in genomic studies, which limit the effectiveness of targeted therapies. The conference will also explore brain health throughout the lifespan, early detection methods, genetics, and the role of primary care in preventing brain disorders.
“These studies underscore the importance of diverse genetic research in dementia. Each insight brings us closer to revolutionizing Alzheimer’s prevention and treatment worldwide. This conference represents a crucial step towards inclusive, effective solutions for brain health across all populations,” said George Vradenburg, Founding Chairman of the Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative.
With Africa’s older population projected to triple by 2050, addressing gaps in dementia care is increasingly urgent. Dementia is a growing global public health challenge, with an estimated 150 million people expected to be living with the disease by 2050. In sub-Saharan Africa, the number of people living with dementia is projected to rise from 2.13 million in 2015 to 3.48 million by 2030 and 7.62 million by 2050.
Prof. Zul Merali, Director of the Brain & Mind Institute at Aga Khan University, emphasized the timeliness of the conference and the need for comprehensive interventions. “As we consider the unique challenges of addressing dementia in Africa, we must recognize the need for capacity building in the Global South to enable early detection. Lifestyle changes are also crucial in altering the trajectory of dementia, and we must continuously communicate this to the public,” said Prof. Zul.
The conference aims to foster new collaborations between African researchers and global partners, exploring how Africa’s evolving healthcare landscape presents unique opportunities for advancing brain health solutions.
