The WHO Foundation and Lilly have announced a collaboration to financially support the aims of the World Health Organization’s global action plan on the public health response to dementia. Dementia is the seventh leading cause of death globally and a major contributor to disability and dependency among older adults. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form, accounting for 60–70% of cases.1
Through this support, efforts on dementia risk reduction, early detection, diagnosis, and care will be strengthened.
At the recent fourth high-level meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being, Member States recognized dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as public health priorities, calling for expanded access to related services. As of 2021, 57 million people worldwide were living with dementia, with more than 60% in low- and middle-income countries.
“Too many people around the world are living with dementia without a diagnosis, without access to quality care, and without the support they and their caregivers need,” said Anil Soni, WHO Foundation CEO. “This partnership will provide much-needed resources for WHO to work with countries to improve the experiences of people living with dementia and those who care for them.”
“For over 35 years, Lilly has been driving scientific progress to improve the diagnostics, treatments, and outcomes for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Today, we are at a pivotal time in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease as our understanding of disease pathology unlock innovative solutions,” says Patrik Jonsson, Executive Vice President and President of Lilly International.
“However, healthcare systems around the world remain unprepared to deliver these innovations. Detecting and treating Alzheimer’s disease early is crucial, as pathological changes begin years before symptoms appear. Diagnosing the disease at this earliest stage provides answers to patients and caregivers sooner, empowering them to make informed choices. Our collaboration with the WHO Foundation aims to support WHO to close critical gaps to ensure that those affected by this disease have access to the care, support, and solutions they need.”
