Emimlio Juan Brignardello Vela
Emilio Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
As the world leaps into 2025, the pursuit of solutions for Alzheimer’s disease has gained remarkable momentum, presenting a wave of optimism for patients, families, and healthcare professionals alike. Though a definitive cure remains elusive, recent advancements signal a turning point in the management and understanding of this devastating disease, which remains a leading cause of death in developed nations, including Ireland. A series of significant breakthroughs has emerged recently, showcasing innovative drugs designed to combat the abnormal protein accumulation in the brain linked to Alzheimer's. Among these, Lecanemab stands out as the first new treatment recommended by the European Medicines Agency in two decades. This groundbreaking drug targets amyloid, the protein responsible for triggering Alzheimer’s, marking a pivotal shift in treatment strategy. Unlike previous cognitive enhancers, which merely alleviated symptoms temporarily, Lecanemab aims to alter the disease's trajectory itself. According to Prof. Seán Kennelly, a geriatrician and clinical lead at the Memory Assessment Clinic in Tallaght University Hospital, this represents a transition into a new era of Alzheimer’s treatment, akin to the advancements seen in cancer therapy. “We are entering a phase where timely and specific diagnosis will play a crucial role, and with new tests being developed, diagnosing Alzheimer’s is becoming more precise than ever,” he explains. As the clinical landscape evolves, the potential for therapies to be administered earlier—before significant symptoms manifest—could transform Alzheimer’s into a manageable condition, much like diabetes or HIV. The excitement surrounding such breakthroughs must be tempered with a recognition of the 64,000 individuals currently living with dementia in Ireland. Dr. Laura O'Philbin from the Alzheimer Society of Ireland emphasizes the ongoing need for services and support to enhance the quality of life for these patients. “While innovation is moving quickly, many of these treatments are still in early stages of real-world application,” she notes. In addition to pharmacological advancements, compelling evidence has emerged linking lifestyle choices to a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Prof. Kennelly points out that as much as 50% of dementia risk is modifiable through simple lifestyle changes. The latest report from the Lancet Commission on Dementia reveals that nearly half of all dementia cases worldwide could be prevented or delayed by addressing risk factors that span from childhood into later life. This includes maintaining regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, engaging in cognitive activities, and limiting alcohol consumption. The emphasis on lifestyle modification cannot be overstated. Factors such as high LDL cholesterol and untreated vision loss have now been recognized as contributing to nearly 9% of dementia cases, adding to the list of 12 previously identified risk factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and social isolation. Kennelly highlights the importance of interventions in midlife, suggesting that adopting healthy habits earlier in life is beneficial, but it’s never too late to make positive changes. Moreover, emerging research suggests that vaccinations against shingles and the flu can potentially lower dementia risk by boosting the body’s immune response, providing yet another avenue for prevention. As new diagnostic tools, such as advanced blood tests for amyloid and tau proteins, become widely available, the potential for earlier diagnosis and intervention grows, promising hope for future generations. As the landscape of Alzheimer’s research continues to evolve, the interplay between innovative treatments and proactive lifestyle changes forms a dual approach in the battle against this complex disease. While the horizon is brightening with the prospect of new therapies, the call to action is clear: individuals can take charge of their health and potentially reduce their risk of dementia through informed lifestyle choices. The journey ahead may still be fraught with challenges, but the strides made in 2024 symbolize a year of hope in the relentless fight against Alzheimer’s disease.