Alzheimer’s and dementia research has momentum now more than ever, largely due to appropriately robust funding from the U.S. Congress. Recent advances include approval of the first effective treatments to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and accurate blood tests.
As Alzheimer’s science rapidly evolves, we all have a responsibility to ensure the information presented to people facing Alzheimer’s and other dementia is accurate and grounded in the latest science. However, increasingly, influencers in the news media and a very small minority in the dementia field are perpetuating harmful myths about Alzheimer’s, including the new Alzheimer’s treatments.
These inaccurate, highly distorted, and sensationalized attacks on scientific discoveries and the scientific community have begun to reach the patient community and are impacting their health care decisions and treatment options.
The Dementia Research Community is Strong, Collaborative, Science-Driven and Exploring a Wide Variety of Pathways
Recently researchers and investigative journalists exposed several dementia researchers who have engaged in fraud over the past two decades resulting in a small number of studies that cannot be relied upon. To be clear — research fraud is unacceptable and must not be tolerated. However, these studies in question were not as pivotal as they have recently been portrayed, and subsequent research was not dependent on them.
Over the past two decades, Alzheimer’s research has included research into the “amyloid hypothesis” based on a robust body of scientific evidence. This research has been successful. Through the clearance of amyloid, the two treatments available to patients today have demonstrated their effectiveness in rigorous phase 3 clinical trials, bringing meaningful benefits to patients.
At the same time, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Alzheimer’s Association and other funders are funding many more projects addressing therapeutic targets such as Tau, inflammation and metabolic pathways. Claims that Alzheimer’s research is focused on amyloid to the exclusion of other targets are simply wrong. For example, as of September 2024, the National Institute on Aging has 68 active pharmacological trials, only 14 of which focus on amyloid.
These Myths are Harming Patients
There are nearly 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. Another 11 million are providing unpaid care. On behalf of these individuals and the millions more who may develop Alzheimer’s or another dementia in the years to come — the myths about Alzheimer’s research must stop.
For someone facing Alzheimer’s disease, having accurate information and unbiased guidance can mean the difference between seeking care — including obtaining a diagnosis, getting access to treatment or exploring participation in clinical trials — or not.