UK Launches Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission with Top Experts at Helm
The UK Government has announced two dementia research heavyweights to lead a bold new national effort to tackle dementia. The “Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission” honours the late star and aims to deliver breakthroughs in diagnosis and treatment.
Hilary Evans and Nadeem Sarwar Take Charge
- Hilary Evans, Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK — Europe’s biggest dementia research charity
- Nadeem Sarwar, senior leader at pharmaceutical giant Eisai
Together, they will unite industry, the NHS, academia, and affected families to accelerate progress against dementia.
Government Pledges £160 Million to Dementia Research
Announced at the World Dementia Council Summit on 20 March, Science Minister George Freeman said:
“Dementia is a cruel blow to patients and their loved ones, as Dame Barbara’s campaigning powerfully showed. Advances in neuroscience, genomics, big data and clinical studies give real hope for new diagnostics and cures.”
“The NHS is our research powerhouse. We’re doubling government funding for dementia research to £160 million by 2024-25. Hilary and Nadeem will drive this mission in Dame Barbara’s spirit to bring hope for a cure. Just like cancer, dementia can become treatable.”
Health Secretary Steve Barclay added:
“Dementia is the UK’s leading cause of death, but cutting-edge technology offers better diagnosis, treatment and care. Hilary and Nadeem will be crucial in speeding up new breakthroughs across the NHS, industry, academia and patient groups.”
Mission Inspired by Covid Vaccine Taskforce Success
Launched in August 2022, the Dementia Mission mirrors the effective model of the Covid Vaccine Taskforce by accelerating clinical trials and innovation. It forms part of the Government’s Life Sciences Vision, which also targets cancer, obesity and mental health.
Evans said:
“I’m proud to co-chair this vital initiative. Dementia research has advanced, but we need collaboration across all sectors to ensure patients get fast access to safe, effective treatments.”
Sarwar added:
“We stand at a turning point in dementia research. The UK’s world-class science and data ecosystem gives us a chance to lead globally. I’m honoured to help realise this vision alongside Hilary.”
Dementia Crisis: Why Action is Urgent
- 1 million people in the UK expected to have dementia by 2025
- 1.6 million cases predicted by 2040
- Leading cause of death in the UK
- Up to 40% of cases may be preventable, but causes remain unclear
The new Mission will harness genomics, AI and state-of-the-art brain imaging to test innovative new treatments earlier — when they can do the most good.
Health Minister Will Quince concluded:
“Building on the Covid Vaccine Taskforce’s success, Hilary and Nadeem will boost collaboration and speed breakthrough dementia treatments. This Mission is a game-changer for patients and families alike.”
