European Strategy to Combat Dementia Under Debate
In a significant development for public health, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) discussed a comprehensive new strategy to address Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia on September 11, 2025, in Brussels. The proposed strategy aims to enhance research funding, improve patient care, and facilitate better support for families affected by these conditions, reports 24brussels.
The debate emerged amid alarming figures revealing that over 10 million people are diagnosed with dementia annually in Europe. This rising trend poses a severe challenge for healthcare systems across EU member states. MEPs underscored the urgency of implementing effective measures to tackle this escalating health crisis, with a particular emphasis on prevention and early diagnosis strategies.
An array of stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and patient advocacy groups, participated in the discussions. They highlighted the need for more robust funding directed at research initiatives focusing on innovative treatments and care practices. Additionally, they called for a unifying approach to share best practices and improve accessibility and affordability of care services for those living with dementia.
During the proceedings, MEP Tilly Metz remarked, “The EU must lead the way in tackling dementia. This involves not only increasing funds but also fostering a collaborative environment where member states can learn from each other’s experiences.” This sentiment reflects a growing consensus among policymakers that a unified European strategy could significantly alleviate the burden of dementia both socially and economically.
The ongoing discussions also addressed the importance of integrating dementia care into broader public health strategies, ensuring that family caregivers receive adequate support and training to manage the complexities associated with caring for those with dementia. Various proposals were introduced to promote research partnerships between academic institutions and the pharmaceutical industry, aimed at accelerating the development of new therapeutic solutions.
As the debate continues, MEPs are expected to vote on the proposed strategy in the coming months, with implications that could reshape how dementia is approached across the continent. The challenge remains significant, but the commitment demonstrated during this session marks a crucial step forward in addressing one of the most pressing health issues facing Europe today.
