Clinical trials are essential for advancing research in Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, yet taking part in them still remains out of reach for many. In a recent article published in January in Pharmaceutical Market Europe (PME), Project Officer Cindy Birck explains why improving access to dementia clinical trials must become a shared European priority, addressing the ongoing limitations and presenting opportunities for more inclusive and effective trial environments for participants on a European level.
The current landscape shows that there are approximately 50 active Alzheimer’s disease trials taking place in Europe, many of which are investigating treatments to slow disease progression or improve quality of life. Despite this, opportunities to participate are unevenly distributed. Trials are often concentrated in a small number of countries at specialised research centres located in urban or academic settings with a tendency of focusing on people in the earliest stages of the disease. As a result, many people living with dementia, particularly those in rural areas, smaller countries or under-represented communities, are excluded from research that could directly affect them.
Cindy also outlines that lack of clear information, complex procedures and logistical challenges continue to deter participation. To help address this, Alzheimer Europe has developed an online tool called Clinical Trials Watch. Led by Cindy, it is designed to make information about dementia trials easier to find and easier to understand. Most importantly, people with lived experience of dementia have been closely involved in shaping the platform, ensuring it reflects real needs and concerns.
The article also points to promising solutions, such as greater use of decentralised trial designs, digital tools and home-based assessments which could reduce travel bur-dens and make studies more accessible. At the same time, stronger coordination across European regulatory systems and sustained investment in dementia research are crucial to creating a more inclusive research environment.
With the number of people living with dementia in Europe continuing to rise, improving access to clinical trials is not only a scientific necessity but an ethical responsibility. As Cindy concludes, meaningful progress will depend on collaboration, transparency and a commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the search for better treatments.
The full article is available in the Pharmaceutical Market Europe Journal here: https://pme.pmlive.com/articles/de7347c4-f739-11f0-b33d-4201ac1fa006?fullscreen=false
