Expanding Representation of Low and Middle Income Countries in Global Dementia Research: Commentary From the Alzheimer's Association

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and all other dementia represent a global challenge, with an estimated 50 million individuals in the world living with dementia today. In low and middle income countries (LMICs), the burden of disease often is greater, and some of these countries are projected to have some of the largest increases in dementia prevalence during the next few decades. As the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to AD and all other dementia, the Alzheimer's Association is committed to its vision of a world without dementia and recognizes the needs, challenges, and opportunities for dementia research in all parts of the world, and especially in LMICs. Currently, the Association is devoting more than $215 million in funding to nearly 600 best-of-field projects in 31 countries, including a significant number of projects that advance and support LMIC-specific research. The innovative work in LMICs is focused on addressing unmet needs or challenges associated with the many unique cultural, demographic, and economic characteristics of these countries. The Association also is expanding leading global forums such as the Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC). In an effort to create new learning and participation opportunities, the Association also has been partnering with other international organizations and collaborating with local leadership to provide AAIC Satellite Symposia (AAIC SS) in LMIC regions around the world. In 2021 and beyond, the Association is committed to continuing these LMIC-focused initiatives, identifying gaps in LMIC research and resources, and enhancing collaboration and communication among researchers in these regions.

Keywords: Alzheimer's; collaboration; convening; dementia; funding; public health.