Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI) wrapped up its World Alzheimer’s Month campaign with a webinar titled: “Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease: The Latest in Research and Best Practices”. The campaign also included releasing various editorials, web articles and social media posts to help create awareness about the disease.

The webinar, which was moderated by Dr. Lawrence Stanton, Scientific Director at the Neurological Disorders Research Center (NDRC), QBRI, featured experts from QBRI and Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) discussing the latest developments and up-to-date scientific findings on the disease. In addition to local attendees, the webinar welcomed international participants who engaged with the speakers in a remarkable Q&A session at the end of the event. 

Dr. Nasser Hussein Zawia, Research Director, QBRI, presented an overview of his work and current research efforts at the institute. He also talked briefly about “when” the disease begins, “what” causes the disease, and “why” it exists. The NDRC focuses on research into neurological disorders of high prevalence in Qatar and the pan-Arab region, using experimental disease modeling, biomarker analyses, gene therapy, and stem cell biology, to study new treatments and therapeutic interventions.

Dr. Shafi Hashmath Ulla Khan, Senior Geriatric Consultant, Assistant Chairperson, Geriatric Fellowship PD at the Department of Geriatrics and Long-Term Care at HMC, offered an introduction to dementia where he talked about signs and symptoms, risk factors, types, evaluation and best practice treatment options of dementia, while Dr. Brijesh Sathian, Post-Doctoral Research Scientist at the Geriatrics and Long Term Care Department, Rumailah Hospital, presented a roadmap on dementia research in Qatar and discussed how to get involved in future research opportunities.

Speaking about the Alzheimer’s campaign, Dr. Omar El Agnaf, Executive Director, QBRI, said: “During the month of September, which is globally recognized as World Alzheimer’s Month, we utilize our various channels to talk about the latest in research and relevant scientific discoveries. In addition, we aim during this month to create awareness among carers and family members because Alzheimer’s not only impacts patients but also affects their families physically, psychologically, socially, and economically”.

Mostly diagnosed in individuals aged 65 and above, Alzheimer’s disease, a type of dementia, is a neurodegenerative disease that contributes to 60-70% of all dementia cases. The disease causes continuous deterioration in thinking, behavioral and social skills with a physical, psychological, social, and economic impact on patients and their families. 

As part of QBRI’s year-round efforts to inform and raise awareness of pressing healthcare topics, the latest article in the popular QBRI Insights series focuses on warning signs, available treatments, and guidelines for prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.