With regard to strengthening measures against dementia, Prime Minister Kishida stated that the Government of Japan intends to support challenging research and development to create even more effective therapeutic drugs and treatments, while taking advantage of the results of the approval of a new drug for Alzheimer's disease in September.
In an effort to strengthen measures against dementia, the "Council for the Realization of a 'Happy Aging Society' Facing Dementia," which was established by the government in September with the participation of people affected by dementia and their families, held its second meeting on September 9.
Prime Minister Kishida reiterated the approval of recanemab, a new drug that directly acts on the causative agent of Alzheimer's disease, in September, and pointed out that "although breakthroughs have been made in dementia treatment, it is still only a milestone."
"We will aim to establish a system for the smooth provision of medical services, and take on the challenge of research and development of further therapeutic drugs and treatment methods by regenerating and repairing neural circuits," and expressed the government's intention to support challenging research and development to create even more effective therapeutic drugs and treatments.
In addition, he stated that it is necessary to improve the environment, such as securing housing, so that people without relatives can live with peace of mind even if they have dementia, and indicated a policy to strengthen support across ministries and agencies.