The global Alzheimer’s market is undergoing a significant transformation. According to GlobalData , this market is expected to reach $19.3 billion by 2033 , driven by scientific advances and revolutionary new treatments.
Drugs such as Leqembi, developed by the partnership between Eisai and Biogen, and Donanemab, from Eli Lilly, promise to change the course of treatment for the disease, offering options that slow the progression of symptoms. These advances represent not only a milestone in medicine, but also a window of opportunity for technological innovations in patient care and support for caregivers.
However, the challenges remain enormous. Data from the National Health Statistics Report (NHIS) shows that 4% of Americans aged 65 and older were diagnosed with dementia in 2022. The impact of the disease is devastating not only for patients but also for their families, who face emotional and financial burdens. It is in this context that innovative solutions, especially in the area of healthtech, can play a crucial role in developing accessible and scalable approaches.
Innovations in healthtech and technology
The intersection of biotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI) has created new possibilities in early diagnosis, treatment development and support for patients with Alzheimer's and other dementias.
In recent years, AI-based technologies have been used to analyze large volumes of medical data, identifying patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. These solutions not only increase the accuracy of diagnoses, but also help to personalize treatments according to each patient’s profile. For example, using wearables to monitor sleep patterns, behavior, and cognition can provide valuable insights for both healthcare professionals and caregivers.
In Brazil, where population aging is a growing reality, there is significant potential to adapt these technologies to the specificities of the local health system. According to the National Report on Dementia (Brazil's Ministry of Health, 2024), the prevalence of dementia affects approximately 8.5% of the population aged 60 or over , with significant regional differences. Telemedicine programs aimed at monitoring patients with dementia, combined with digital education for caregivers, are examples of innovations that can transform the current scenario.
The challenges and advances of new treatments
Therapeutic advances also bring logistical and infrastructure challenges. Medications such as Leqembi and Donanemab, which offer the possibility of slowing the progression of the disease, require a healthcare system prepared to perform early diagnoses and manage long-term treatments. To achieve this, collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential.
The aging of the Brazilian population represents an urgent challenge. According to projections in the same report, the number of people living with dementia in Brazil is expected to jump from 2.46 million in 2019 to 8.74 million in 2049 , highlighting the importance of integrated strategies to deal with the growing demand for specialized care.
The intersection of technology, life sciences, and AI can leverage initiatives that bring concrete benefits to the healthcare system. From cognitive monitoring apps to educational platforms for caregivers, there is room for innovations that integrate technology and humanization of care.
Strategic partnerships have proven to be essential to strengthen the health innovation ecosystem in the country. IBIS has worked to connect different actors in this ecosystem – startups, hospitals, universities and industries – promoting collaborations that generate positive impact and transform challenges into opportunities.
The impact of aging in Brazil
With a rapidly aging population, Brazil faces a dual challenge: preparing its healthcare infrastructure to meet growing demands and providing affordable solutions for patients and their families. Data from the IBGE indicate that by 2050, approximately 25% of the Brazilian population will be over 60 years old, increasing the prevalence of chronic diseases such as Alzheimer's.
This scenario requires not only advances in medicine, but also a paradigm shift in the way we care for our elderly population. Innovation in healthtechs can be the key to addressing these challenges in a scalable and efficient way.
The Alzheimer’s market is undergoing a transformation, driven by therapeutic advances and the convergence of biotechnology and information technology. In Brazil, initiatives that integrate technological innovations with the needs of patients and caregivers can generate significant impact and strengthen the health system.
The future of Alzheimer’s care is being built today, and it is essential that we continue to invest in innovative and sustainable solutions. What challenges and opportunities do you see in Alzheimer’s care in Brazil? Share your experience or vision on how we can innovate and transform this sector together.
by Marcio de Paula
Brazilian Health Innovation Institute - IBIS
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