The pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly is preparing to launch the distribution of Donanemab in Mexico, a drug recently approved by the Comisión Federal para la Protección contra Riesgos Sanitarios (Cofepris) for the treatment of early-stage Alzheimer's disease. This marks a significant step in addressing a growing health concern in the country, as highlighted by Hernández (2024) in Grupo Milenio's recent report. According to Apreza (2024), director senior for neurosciences of Lilly México, this medicine offers a therapeutic option with the potential to slow the progression of the disease and improve the quality of life for patients in its early stages.
Addressing Alzheimer's in Mexico: A New Hope
Alzheimer's disease poses a substantial challenge to Mexico's healthcare system. Currently, 7.8 percent of adults over 60 are living with Alzheimer's and related dementias. Experts predict that within the next 35 years, this number could surge to approximately 3.5 million Mexicans, so the distribution of Donanemab could bring hope to the country. This situation underscores the urgency for prioritizing Alzheimer's care within the Secretaría de Salud de México (SSA), as emphasized by specialists consulted by Grupo Milenio (Hernández, 2024).
The Promise of Donanemab
Donanemab stands out as a targeted treatment focusing on amyloid plaques, which are believed to play a key role in the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's. According to Eli Lilly, the drug aims to help the body eliminate excessive amyloid accumulation in the brain, potentially preserving memory and cognitive function for a longer period. This approach aligns with the latest advancements in Alzheimer's research, seeking to address the disease's underlying mechanisms rather than merely managing its symptoms (Eli Lilly, 2024).
Distribution and Accessibility
The initial distribution plan focuses on hospitals and specialized centers equipped to administer this type of treatment. As explained by Ortiz (2024), director de acceso y asuntos corporativos para Lilly México, the rollout will likely begin in major cities with established healthcare infrastructure, followed by a progressive expansion to reach more communities.
The Economic Impact of Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's disease not only affects individuals and families emotionally, but also carries significant economic burdens. A 2017 study by the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) revealed that the long-term care costs for Alzheimer's patients, including hospitalizations and medications, can amount to $6,157 USD per capita annually in Mexico. This figure can represent up to 60 percent of a family's budget, as stated by Hernández (2024) in Grupo Milenio.
Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer's
Alzheimer's progresses through several stages, each marked by distinct symptoms and levels of cognitive impairment. The Alzheimer's Association outlines seven stages, with the initial three considered pre-dementia. It’s crucial to recognize that early diagnosis and intervention are vital for maximizing the benefits of treatments like Donanemab.
The Seven Stages of Alzheimer's:
- Preclinical: No evident symptoms, but brain changes are occurring.
- Early Stage: Mild memory problems, such as forgetting names or places.
- Moderate Stage: Increased memory loss and confusion, including forgetting important events.
- Moderately Severe: Difficulty recognizing faces and declining cognitive abilities.
- Severe: Significant memory loss, impaired communication, and need for assistance.
- Very Severe: Requires 24-hour care and has limited mobility.
- Terminal: Complete loss of interaction with the environment, requiring full-time care focused on comfort and quality of life.
The Texas Department of State Health Services estimates that individuals with Alzheimer's can live for an average of 8 to 20 years, depending on the disease's progression, diagnosis time, and treatment. While there is no cure, timely intervention can delay symptoms and improve quality of life (Texas Department of State Health Services, 2024).
Advocating for Prioritized Care
Experts emphasize the importance of incorporating Alzheimer's into Mexico's national health priorities. This includes updating diagnostic and treatment protocols to incorporate specific biomarkers for accurate and timely diagnoses. According to Hernández (2024), prioritizing Alzheimer's within the Secretaría de Salud de México (SSA) is fundamental for patients to benefit effectively from new treatments like Donanemab.
With the imminent arrival of Donanemab, Mexico is taking a crucial step forward in the fight against Alzheimer's. This drug offers a chance to slow down the disease's progression, and underscores the need for comprehensive strategies that address both the medical and socio-economic challenges posed by this condition. The collective effort from healthcare providers, policymakers, and pharmaceutical companies is essential to ensure that individuals affected by Alzheimer's receive the care and support they deserve.
