Neurodegeneration: accelerated ageing or inadequate healthcare?

EPMA J. 2010 Jun;1(2):211-5. doi: 10.1007/s13167-010-0030-5. Epub 2010 Jun 29.

Abstract

Current figures: About 300 million Diabetics frequently affected by Poly-Neuropathy as secondary complication, 18 million patients with Alzheimer's disease also diagnosed as Diabetes Type 3, neurodegenerative eye diseases with leading causes of blindness-diabetic retinopathy and estimated 67 million glaucoma patients worldwide, millions of patients with Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy and Dementia in the elderly-altogether dramatically affect life quality, social and economical indexes of populations around the globe. Optimistic versus Pessimistic Prognosis depends much on diagnostic, preventive and treatment approaches which healthcare will preferably adopt in the near future. Without innovation in healthcare, neurodegenerative disorders can reach more than 30% of global disease burden till 2020. In contrast, effective utilisation of advanced early/predictive diagnostics, preventive and personalised medical approaches could enable a significant portion of population to reach the 100-year age limit remaining vibrant in excellent physical and mental health as actively contributing members of society.