European AD initiative backed by patient group

The Council of European Union Health Ministers has adopted "far-reaching conclusions on public health strategies to combat neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging, in particular Alzheimer's disease," according to Alzheimer Europe, a representative body for AD patient groups across the region. Coming at the end of the French presidency, the policy announcement "clearly recognizes Alzheimer's disease as a priority for European action and calls on member states to develop national strategies or action plans in this field aimed at improving the quality of life of patients and their carers," the group adds.

Among the measures agreed by the Council of Ministers, the European Commission has been asked to adopt an initiative in 2009 which would strengthen European research collaboration, as well as exchange best practices on: prevention; early diagnosis; health and social care treatments; and rehabilitation. The Commission is also expected to consider the ethical dimension of AD and the protection of patients' rights. The conclusions also make a clear reference to the campaign of Alzheimer Europe and its member organizations to make AD a public health priority.

Jean Georges, executive director of Alzheimer Europe, welcomed the EU initiative. He said: "Alzheimer Europe would like to congratulate the French presidency on the significant achievement of reaching a consensus amongst all member states and the European Commission to make Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia a European priority." He added that 6.1 million Europeans are currently living with a form of dementia.