Alzheimer’s is a non-communicable disease. You cannot ‘catch’ this disease from someone suffering from it, nor can it be spread by ways associated with epidemics. Yet, until now, Alzheimer’s disease—a devastating reflection of the estimated 36 million people world-wide now living with dementia—has never been recognized as part of even the non-communicable disease category that includes heart disease, cancer, or diabetes.
This last Sunday I was honored to be invited to the “Unite for a Healthy Future” event that kicked off the United Nations Non Communicable Disease Summit held September 19-20 in New York City. Being a part of this welcoming committee, I began to feel the true impact that these two days will have on the fight against Alzheimer’s.
It is an historic event. For the first time Alzheimer’s disease is being recognized by the United Nations as being a part of the world’s Non Communicable Diseases. Now that may seem like a simple thing, but by recognizing Alzheimer’s disease as a part of this global category, a door has been opened, allowing United Nations Member States to develop effective programs to confront this disease on a world wide scale.
I sat with Mike Splaine, National Policy Advisor and ardent supporter of Alzheimer’s Disease International. From the moment he began to speak, it was evident that his passion and dedication are a part of the driving force that is helping to bring Alzheimer’s disease to the forefront of national and international attention.
As I listened to him speak, I became even more aware of the critical state we are in:
This disease is clearly a major concern internationally. Given that the world’s population is growing older, reports clearly demonstrate that Alzheimer’s disease is among the most significant social, health and economic crises of the 21st century. Yet, if goverments act urgently to develop research and care strategies, the impact of this disease can be managed.
And that is where the United Nations comes in. The recognition of Alzheimer’s disease in the UN Summit is an acceptance that aging is a global phenomenon, that non-communicable diseases reach older as well as younger age groups, and that this Summit can be a critical step for rallying global efforts to meet the needs of all age groups affected by mental and neurological diseases.
A clearly positive thing.
Hugs,
Marilynn Visit me on my website! www.releasedtotheangels.com
United Nations, New York City
Mike Splaine, National Policy Advisor explaining the importance of the United Nations' Non Communicable Disease Summit
Mike Splaine, ardent supporter of Alzheimer's Disease International and Marilynn Garzione
