WHO develops blueprint for dementia research

The World Health Organization has created a research roadmap for dementia, the first such project for a non-communicable disease. The blueprint is intended to offer direction to decision-makers, funders, and the research community about dementia research, thereby increasing its effectiveness, equity, and impact.
Dr Soumya Swaminathan, WHO’s Chief Scientist said, “Although dementia is the 7th leading cause of death globally, dementia research accounts for less than 1.5 per cent of total health research output. Sadly, we are falling behind implementing the Global action plan on the public health response to dementia 2017-25. Addressing dementia comprehensively requires research and innovation to be an integral part of the response.”
WHO urges other funding organisations, national and international research agencies, and financing bodies to apply this template to guide new funding streams and operationalize the motivations for research. In order to assist the push for a more equitable, effective, and collaborative research landscape, civil society may make sure that lobbying efforts are also coordinated. By filling in the specified research gaps, researchers can also assist in the accomplishment of milestones and strategic objectives of this blueprint.
To ensure that the actions outlined in the blueprint are carried out, milestones are met, and strategic goals are realised with the ultimate goal of improving the quality of life of people living with dementia and the support provided to them and their caregivers, WHO will collaborate with all relevant stakeholders from all relevant sectors