Increasing Participation in Alzheimer’s Drug Trials

This article is a guide that discusses the challenges and strategies for increasing trial participation and population diversity in early-phase Alzheimer’s disease drug development. It outlines the current state of Alzheimer’s trials, noting that as of January 2023, there are 187 trials assessing 141 unique treatments, yet recruitment is lagging behind scientific advancements. The article highlights the common concerns of patients and families regarding trial participation, such as invasive procedures and risks involved. It emphasizes the need for improved outreach and engagement with diverse populations to facilitate earlier diagnoses and increase participation in clinical trials. The guide also describes the implementation of cognitive and biomarker testing for healthy older adults to identify those at risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, it details outreach strategies aimed at raising public awareness and educating both patients and healthcare providers about the benefits of early detection and trial participation. These efforts are crucial for building trust and making Alzheimer’s trials more accessible and inclusive.