Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) are among the most prevalent and debilitating neurodegenerative disorders worldwide. Affecting over 6 million individuals in the U.S. and more than 55 million globally, these conditions significantly burden individuals, caregivers, and society as a whole, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Unfortunately, there are currently no known treatments to prevent or halt the progression of these diseases, highlighting the urgent need for effective interventions.
Developed countries are making efforts to tackle the challenges posed by AD/ADRD. For instance, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) collaborates with the National Institute on Aging (NIA) to establish research priorities and fund biomedical research aimed at reducing the burden of dementia in the United States. These initiatives aim to not only advance our understanding of these diseases but also to develop effective treatments and improve care for individuals affected by AD/ADRD.
While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, other related dementias share similar cognitive and pathological features, making accurate diagnosis and treatment challenging. This complexity highlights the importance of ongoing research and collaboration to address the multifaceted nature of these diseases.
Joyce Ogidigo PhD is a pharmacological Biochemist, her research is focused on designing and developing small drug molecules for the treatment of major chronic diseases. With over 7 years research experience in Nigeria, She is currently a postdoctoral Research Scientist at Columbia University Medical Center. In this interview, she explains how Africa can address ADRD.
The impact of ADRD in Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces unique challenges in addressing AD/ADRD. Several factors contribute to the limited access to mental health services for individuals with ADRD in SSA, according to Joyce Oloaigbe Ogidigo, a Biomedical Scientist and expert in drug discovery development. These include a shortage of trained healthcare professionals, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and limited public awareness and stigma surrounding mental health.
“This critical shortage of professionals, particularly in rural areas, hinders the timely diagnosis and management of AD/ADRD,” Ogidigo said. “However, improving access to mental health services and raising awareness about these conditions are essential steps in addressing the burden of AD/ADRD in the region.”
In Nigeria, the challenges posed by ADRD are further exacerbated by cultural beliefs and language barriers. “With over 500 local languages and no specific word for dementia, many Nigerians struggle to understand and explain the symptoms of AD/ADRD, leading to stigmatization and limited access to care,” a study by the Alzheimer’s Association read in part.
Addressing the challenges of ADRD in Sub-Saharan Africa
To address these challenges, comprehensive strategies are needed to strengthen mental health systems, enhance workforce capacity, improve infrastructure, and raise public awareness. Culturally appropriate awareness campaigns and formal long-term care policies can help reduce stigmatisation and improve access to care for individuals with AD/ADRD, especially in Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa.
Additionally, population-based data on AD/ADRD incidence in Nigeria is crucial for informing prevention and management strategies, Ogidigo noted in a report published in the proceedings of the Innovation in Aging by the Gerontological Society of America in December 2023.
“Understanding the geographic variation and determinants of ADRD can help identify high-risk groups and regions, facilitate early detection efforts, and guide the allocation of resources and tailored interventions,” she said.
Despite the challenges posed by AD/ADRD, there is hope for the future. Targeted investments in rural healthcare infrastructure, workforce training, and community outreach can enhance health policies and improve diagnosis and care for individuals with ADRD, particularly in rural Nigeria and other under-resourced regions. Telemedicine initiatives, equitable resource allocation, and inter-agency collaboration are essential components of these efforts. “By addressing the geographic (rural-urban) disparities and structural inequalities in the diagnosis and care of individuals with AD/ADRD, we can improve the quality of life for those affected by these debilitating diseases and reduce the burden on individuals, families, and communities worldwide,” Ogidigo said.
