I am humbled to be appointed as one of the nine international leaders, to the World Dementia Council (WDC). The WDC, works to drive global progress on dementia. Its mission is to support and challenge the international community to advance treatments, risk reduction, awareness, and quality care. Building international collaboration, the Council provides thought leadership and advocates for dementia as a global priority. At the recent meeting, the deliberations focused on the new first-generation treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, and how to bring these drugs to the clinics in the global North. Furthermore, we discussed how the global community should address the additional challenges facing the global South in making such new treatments accessible to the low- and middle-income countries.
Reflecting on my recent participation at the Davos Alzheimer's Collaborative’s Brain House during the World Economic Forum, I am reminded of the urgency and significance of our mission in advancing brain health and mental well-being. The forum underscored that brain health transcends medical boundaries; it is central to economic and eco-societal concerns that affects communities worldwide.
The conversations at Davos reinforced the need for global collaboration, early detection, prevention and policy initiatives that place brain health at the center of public health discussions. The intersection of neuroscience, public policy and innovation was a key theme, demonstrating how scientific research can inform real-world solutions that improve lives. These discussions validate the work we are doing and challenge us to push even further in our efforts.
This quarter, we have witnessed pivotal advancements in mental and brain health policy and research. One of the most significant milestones was the decriminalization of suicide in Kenya; a historic ruling that marks a shift toward a compassionate, rights-based approach to mental health. This is reminiscent of a recent ruling in Pakistan. Professor Lukoye Atwoli and I played a key role in advocacy and the petition that led to this landmark decision in Kenya. This victory is a crucial step in reducing stigma, ensuring access to care, and affirming mental health as a fundamental human right. It is time that those in distress get to face compassion and therapists instead of the police and the courts.
Another breakthrough was the dissemination of findings from our study on attitudes and perceptions of dementia in Kenya. This study, conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital well as in informal settlements across Nairobi, explored the experiences of patients, caregivers, healthcare providers and community members, uncovering some of the key challenges facing our communities. Stigma and misunderstanding of dementia make life even more difficult for people living with dementia; Indeed, we heard many stories of families isolating and ‘protecting’ their demented loved ones from the hostile, ill-informed community – that often mistook dementia for influence of witchcraft or evil-spirt possession. In addition, the high cost of care creates financial challenges, limiting access to treatment and support. Gaps in healthcare training leave providers unprepared to offer quality dementia care. Concerns about participating in research and donating biospecimens for research in clinical trials, slow down progress in dementia research.
By highlighting these challenges, we aim to spark conversations that lead to better support, improved healthcare and more inclusive research.
From policy reforms to pioneering research, our collective efforts are shaping a future where mental and brain health receive the attention they deserve. Indeed, we are working closely with the Ministry of Health, to finalize the Dementia Action Plan for Kenya.
This edition of our newsletter highlights some of these critical initiatives, showcasing the impact of our work across research, education and community interventions. Each achievement is a testament to the dedication of our teams and partners who work diligently to drive meaningful change.
We remain committed to expanding research, forging new partnerships and advocating for policies that prioritize brain health on a global scale. I invite you to engage with our work, share in our vision and join us in shaping a future where mental and brain health are recognized as essential to overall well-being and human progress.
Thank you for your continued support.
