Africa faces unique challenges in addressing dementia, including limited resources, varying levels of healthcare infrastructure, and a need for greater awareness and education.
The conference, hosted by Aga Khan University’s Brain & Mind Institute in partnership with The Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative (DAC) and Nature Conferences, brings together experts from across Africa and the world to address key issues and share latest research on the epidemiology of dementia.
The conference themed The Future of Dementia in Africa: Advancing Global Partnerships, is expected to present studies focusing on genetics of dementia in African and underrepresented populations.
“This conference marks a pivotal step towards inclusive, effective solutions for brain health across all populations,” said George Vradenburg, Founding Chairman of Davos Alzheimer’s Collaborative.
From left Davos Alzheimer’s Founding Chairman of the Board George Vradenburg, Aga Khan University Brain and Mind Institute Director Prof. Zul Merali and DAC Executive Vice President Strategy and Innovation Vaibhav Narayan
“As we look at the unique challenges faced in addressing dementia in Africa, we must be alive to the important aspect that capacity building is needed in the global south in order to enable early detection of the disease. We must also understand that lifestyle changes are important in changing the trajectory of dementia, and this is something that we must keep communicating to the public,” said Prof. Zul.
Dementia is a growing public health challenge around the world, with an estimated 150 million people expected to be living with the disease by 2050. In sub-Saharan Africa, 2.13 million were living with dementia in 2015, and this number is expected to increase to 3.48 million by 2030 and 7.62 million by 2050.
The conference will also foster new collaborations between African researchers and global partners as experts discuss how Africa’s evolving healthcare landscape, presents a unique opportunity for advancing brain health solutions.
