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Dementia in Latin America: Paving the way toward a regional action plan.
Parra, MA, Baez, S, Sedeño, L, Gonzalez Campo, C, Santamaría-García, H, Aprahamian, I, Bertolucci, PH, Bustin, J, Camargos Bicalho, MA, Cano-Gutierrez, C, et al
Alzheimer's & dementia : the journal of the Alzheimer's Association. 2021;(2):295-313
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Abstract
Across Latin American and Caribbean countries (LACs), the fight against dementia faces pressing challenges, such as heterogeneity, diversity, political instability, and socioeconomic disparities. These can be addressed more effectively in a collaborative setting that fosters open exchange of knowledge. In this work, the Latin American and Caribbean Consortium on Dementia (LAC-CD) proposes an agenda for integration to deliver a Knowledge to Action Framework (KtAF). First, we summarize evidence-based strategies (epidemiology, genetics, biomarkers, clinical trials, nonpharmacological interventions, networking, and translational research) and align them to current global strategies to translate regional knowledge into transformative actions. Then we characterize key sources of complexity (genetic isolates, admixture in populations, environmental factors, and barriers to effective interventions), map them to the above challenges, and provide the basic mosaics of knowledge toward a KtAF. Finally, we describe strategies supporting the knowledge creation stage that underpins the translational impact of KtAF.
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The Multi-Partner Consortium to Expand Dementia Research in Latin America (ReDLat): Driving Multicentric Research and Implementation Science.
Ibanez, A, Yokoyama, JS, Possin, KL, Matallana, D, Lopera, F, Nitrini, R, Takada, LT, Custodio, N, Sosa Ortiz, AL, Avila-Funes, JA, et al
Frontiers in neurology. 2021;:631722
Abstract
Dementia is becoming increasingly prevalent in Latin America, contrasting with stable or declining rates in North America and Europe. This scenario places unprecedented clinical, social, and economic burden upon patients, families, and health systems. The challenges prove particularly pressing for conditions with highly specific diagnostic and management demands, such as frontotemporal dementia. Here we introduce a research and networking initiative designed to tackle these ensuing hurdles, the Multi-partner consortium to expand dementia research in Latin America (ReDLat). First, we present ReDLat's regional research framework, aimed at identifying the unique genetic, social, and economic factors driving the presentation of frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease in Latin America relative to the US. We describe ongoing ReDLat studies in various fields and ongoing research extensions. Then, we introduce actions coordinated by ReDLat and the Latin America and Caribbean Consortium on Dementia (LAC-CD) to develop culturally appropriate diagnostic tools, regional visibility and capacity building, diplomatic coordination in local priority areas, and a knowledge-to-action framework toward a regional action plan. Together, these research and networking initiatives will help to establish strong cross-national bonds, support the implementation of regional dementia plans, enhance health systems' infrastructure, and increase translational research collaborations across the continent.
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Brain health INnovation Diplomacy: a model binding diverse disciplines to manage the promise and perils of technological innovation.
Ternes, K, Iyengar, V, Lavretsky, H, Dawson, WD, Booi, L, Ibanez, A, Vahia, I, Reynolds, C, DeKosky, S, Cummings, J, et al
International psychogeriatrics. 2020;(8):955-979
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain health diplomacy aims to influence the global policy environment for brain health (i.e. dementia, depression, and other mind/brain disorders) and bridges the disciplines of global brain health, international affairs, management, law, and economics. Determinants of brain health include educational attainment, diet, access to health care, physical activity, social support, and environmental exposures, as well as chronic brain disorders and treatment. Global challenges associated with these determinants include large-scale conflicts and consequent mass migration, chemical contaminants, air quality, socioeconomic status, climate change, and global population aging. Given the rapidly advancing technological innovations impacting brain health, it is paramount to optimize the benefits and mitigate the drawbacks of such technologies. OBJECTIVE We propose a working model of Brain health INnovation Diplomacy (BIND). METHODS We prepared a selective review using literature searches of studies pertaining to brain health technological innovation and diplomacy. RESULTS BIND aims to improve global brain health outcomes by leveraging technological innovation, entrepreneurship, and innovation diplomacy. It acknowledges the key role that technology, entrepreneurship, and digitization play and will increasingly play in the future of brain health for individuals and societies alike. It strengthens the positive role of novel solutions, recognizes and works to manage both real and potential risks of digital platforms. It is recognition of the political, ethical, cultural, and economic influences that brain health technological innovation and entrepreneurship can have. CONCLUSIONS By creating a framework for BIND, we can use this to ensure a systematic model for the use of technology to optimize brain health.