Modest advances with new drugs
After decades of stalled progress, two treatments — Eli Lilly’s donanemab and Biogen and Eisai’s lecanemab — have shown the ability to slow Alzheimer’s progression. Sold under the brand name Leqembi, lecanemab has been approved in several countries, including the United States. However, the drugs only work at early stages of the disease and carry serious risks, such as brain hemorrhages. Concerns over cost-effectiveness have led regulators in France and the UK to decline reimbursement, while U.S. authorities moved forward with approval.
Blood tests transform early diagnosis
Traditionally, Alzheimer’s diagnosis has required invasive and costly lumbar punctures. Now, a new blood test detecting biological markers offers a less intrusive option. U.S. regulators approved the test in May, while Europe has yet to follow. A national clinical trial is underway in Britain. The debate continues on whether biomarkers alone are sufficient for diagnosis. The U.S. Alzheimer’s Association now says they are, but many European specialists insist clinical evaluation remains essential, noting that not all patients with abnormal biomarkers develop dementia.
Prevention through lifestyle changes
Roughly half of Alzheimer’s cases are linked to modifiable risk factors such as obesity, smoking, alcohol use, inactivity, and hearing loss. While programs promoting healthier living are being tested, results so far show only limited impact on slowing cognitive decline. A recent study in JAMA reported that intensive two-year lifestyle interventions produced slight improvements. Experts say long-term trials of 10 to 15 years may be necessary to confirm benefits in preventing Alzheimer’s.
Progress, but no cure yet
Alzheimer’s remains the most common form of dementia, accounting for about 70% of cases worldwide. For patients and families, the modest progress may feel underwhelming, but researchers stress that the advances represent a significant step forward compared to only a few years ago. While a cure remains out of reach, new drugs, diagnostic tools, and prevention strategies are reshaping the fight against this devastating disease.