Alzheimer: it is time for action, in Europe and in Bulgaria

Europe is facing a growing dementia crisis. Bulgaria is no exception.

Alzheimer disease, the most widespread form of dementia, affects more than 7 million people in Europe, a number that is expected to double by 2030. This makes the disease one of the most serious health and social challenges of our time. The costs are expected to exceed 250 billion euros for the continent.

A disease with a high price, personal, social and economic

Alzheimer starts invisibly, with a hidden stage, without obvious symptoms. Gradually it leads to memory loss, impaired cognitive function and an inability to cope with daily life. It affects not only the patient but the whole family. Informal care, usually taken on by relatives, is the largest item in the overall cost of dementia in Europe.

The Bulgarian reality: silence, delay, unequal access

In our country the diagnosis is often made late, and information about the stages of the disease is missing. Many patients and their families come up against a lack of accessible care, social support and understanding from the institutions. This further sharpens the sense of isolation and helplessness.

A scientific breakthrough: a chance for change

The new generation of therapies aimed at the early stages of Alzheimer gives hope. Instead of only treating symptoms, we now have the possibility of influencing the course of the disease. Innovative digital platforms and personalised medicine are outlining the future of care.

Political decisions are needed, not only medical ones

The appearance of effective therapies raises the question: will they be available to everyone or only to the wealthiest? The responsibility lies with politicians. The European institutions and national governments have to:

• Guarantee long-term funding for research;
• Include dementia as a priority in their health strategies;
• Recognise dementia as a form of disability in line with the UN;
• Support the relatives providing care, predominantly women, often unpaid and overburdened;
• Shorten the time to diagnosis and ensure equal access to the new therapies.

A call for solidarity and action

Alzheimer is not simply a health problem, it is a social challenge and a question of human rights. It is time for Europe and Bulgaria to act, with compassion, scientific research and solidarity. Only in this way will people with dementia not be left alone, but receive care, understanding and support.