Cancer and Alzheimer’s - can we prophesize the future of progress?

Many expensive oncology medicines which have entered clinical practice have resulted in lucrative profits for pharma, an excessive financial burden for healthcare systems and questionable benefits for patients. Recent approvals of new Alzheimer’s drugs were about to set a similar trend in neurological diseases but were timely questioned. The panel discussion will delve into the striking parallels currently observed in the efforts to capitalize on oncology and Alzheimer`s drugs, emphasizing the significant investments being poured into these areas and the rush to bring these medicines to market. The panel will explore trends such as accelerated approval pathways, breakthrough designations, and the intense competition to lead the market. Additionally, the discussion will address controversies surrounding the balance between innovation and patient safety, the ethical implications of fast-tracking drugs with limited long-term data, and the potential for financial incentives to overshadow rigorous scientific validation. The role of regulatory bodies, especially the FDA, will be scrutinized as to who they actually serve. This conversation aims to provide a
comprehensive overview of the current landscape, highlighting both the promise and the pitfalls of these high-stakes medical advancements. The panel will also focus on the need for a broader approach in preventing both conditions, advocating not only for lifestyle changes, but more importantly public health and environmental interventions over an exclusive focus on molecular solutions.

Speakers:

Chair: Dr. Leeza Osipenko
Dr. Michael Kolodziej (ADVI Health)
Prof Aaron Kesselheim (Harvard University)
Prof Sharon Brangman (Upstate University Hospital)
Prof Peter Whitehouse (Case Western Reserve University)

Comments in chat:

John Hickman: There's a big move in cancer to both early detection and prevention (look at the goals of the Cancer Moonshot), recognising the limits to therapy. Will this happen in the Alzheimer's /Dementia?
Peter Whitehouse: Early detection yes- to start people on drugs sooner. Prevention through public health not so much.
Lydie Meheus: In oncology, research and trials in surgery and radiotherapy and combinations are neglected by decision makers because of the strong focus on drugs. Are there non-drug treatments of importance in Alzheimer?
Richard: Telling the public that lose weight, eat well, take exercise, never smoke and drink little is hard sell politically - politician like a pill or a shiny product.
John Grogan: TV advertising 12 minutes per hour... 365 days per year for decades (in North America)



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