Essentially this Friday, we look at Portuguese investigation into Alzheimer’s disease. It is the most frequent cause of dementia, which is estimated to reach more than 50 million people worldwide.
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the biggest threats to global health. It is increasingly affecting people and more early ages, being the main cause of dementia. More than 50 million people worldwide are estimated to live with some kind of dementia, a number that could increase significantly in the coming years.
In Portugal, several scientists seek answers to this complex disease. One of the highlights is that of Tiago Gil Oliveira, a researcher at the University of Minho, whose work has been recognized with several awards. The most recent was the which included a 100,000 euros scholarship to support your investigation.
The team led by He found that toxic protein associated with Alzheimer’s can affect different areas of the brain in different ways, an important revelation for understanding the progression of the disease. This knowledge can pave the way to more directed treatments in the future.
In addition to scientific research, the role of neuroradiologists is essential for diagnosis. The study of the cerebral mechanisms involved in learning and memory has been the focus of the work of Tiago Gil Oliveira, driven by the hope of discovering new clues about the functioning of the human brain.
Although Alzheimer’s diagnosis is still complex and much is yet to discover, it is known enough to realize the devastating impact it has, not only on the sick, but also on its families. Asking for help and sharing the load is often essential.
Technical file
Editorial Coordination: Conceição Lino
Journalist: Ana Lúcia Martins, Conceição Lino
Image: Romeu Carvalho, Paulo Cepa, 4kfly
Image edition: Daniel Fernandes, Marisabel Neto
Production: Rita Padua
Colorist: Jorge Carmo
Graphics: Patrícia Reis, Sara Almeida, João Vaz Oliveira, Rui Silva, Rolando Arrifana and Walid Saleh
