MATHER WELCOMES EU INITIATIVE ON ALZHEIMERS

Jim Mather Argyll & Bute MSP, joins SNP President Ian Hudghton MEP in welcoming the proposals from the European Commission to coordinate action across the EU aimed at improving early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other degenerative neurological conditions throughout Europe. This initiative will also encourage sharing of best practice and provide a forum to reflect on the rights of patients. Dementia is a huge issue throughout Europe affecting millions of individuals and families. There are an estimated seven million people across the EU with dementia, some 70,000 in Scotland - and these figures are expected to rise in the future. The EU's proposals place dementia at the centre of European health programmes. Through joint initiatives the member countries of the EU will be able to coordinate action to improve research into degenerative conditions whilst ensuring hope and dignity to those who already have dementia.

Jim Mather said:

“The proposal comes less than two months after the Scottish Government announcement of a National Dementia Strategy and as my colleague Ian Hudghton MEP has reported the Commission has expressly recognised Scotland as one of a handful of countries to have already embarked upon a national dementia strategy. Scotland also has world-class research facilities and has much to contribute to wider European and global efforts to find effective preventions, diagnosis and treatments.

This news will bring encouragement to all those who work tirelessly in Argyll and Bute caring and raising funds for those who suffer from this cruel disease and pride that Scotland can play a lead role.”