Coordination Action in support of the implementation of a Joint Programming Initiative for Combating Neurodegenerative Diseases, in particular Alzheimer’s disease

The objective of the Coordination Action JUMPAHEAD is to support the implementation of the pilot Joint Programming Initiative on combating neurodegenerative diseases, in particular Alzheimer’s disease (JPND). Neurodegenerative disorders are incurable and debilitating conditions that result in progressive degeneration or death of nerve cells. Of these, the dementias are responsible for the greatest burden of disease, and today in Europe over 7 million people suffer from Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, with this figure expected to double by 2020 as the European population ages. Although our understanding of the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disease has greatly improved over the past few years, there is no effective treatment able to stop or even slow down the deterioration of brain functions associated with these disorders. To tackle this pan-European health and societal challenge more effectively, 22 EU countries have launched the JPND. This is an innovative programme based on a common vision to improve the impact of their combined research effort to accelerate progress towards new treatments, identify preventative strategies, and improve patient care. JUMPAHEAD will build the foundations for this initiative by supporting the development and implementation of a Strategic Research Agenda, as well as its dissemination and evaluation. This will be achieved under the direction of the JPND Management Board. The output of JUMPAHEAD over its 36 month duration will include innovative ways of pooling national expertise and resources and the establishment of closer and robust research collaborations among the participating States in the field of neuro-degeneration research. JUMPAHEAD will contribute to the European Research Area by addressing fragmentation and improving integration of national research programmes to offer a competitive and attractive image of European research prosecuted for the greatest benefit of Europe’s populations and economies.