Prevalence, Needs, Strategies, and Risk Factors for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Effective treatments are not yet available for neurodegenerative diseases, which are rapidly increasing in number as life spans in many countries continue to lengthen. Neurodegenerative diseases place a huge burden on families and on healthcare systems as they are a common cause of morbidity and cognitive impairment in older adults. The cost and societal impact of neurodegenerative disorders are increased by the disability they cause, and the high levels of daily, supervised care and assistance needed. Major unmet needs have been defined and strategies advanced to mitigate neurodegenerative diseases. Novel and multidisciplinary approaches are needed, as well as the strengthening and extension of existing capabilities across basic, clinical, social care and translational research, to achieve significant impact.