This lecture, delivered by Professor Chin-Hsien Lin—a neurology expert from the CARES team—focused on the challenges and strategies related to neurodegenerative diseases in the context of Taiwan’s rapidly aging society. As the population structure shifts dramatically, the proportion of individuals aged 65 and older is expected to reach 25% within the next decade. This demographic change is making neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease increasingly prevalent and urgent public health concerns.
The lecture provided an in-depth analysis of the pathogenesis, prodromal symptoms, and the latest diagnostic technologies and treatment trends for these two major conditions.
Professor Lin emphasized that these diseases do not occur suddenly, but rather develop gradually over many years before clinical symptoms become evident. Therefore, early identification and preventive intervention are crucial. She introduced a comprehensive screening approach that includes questionnaires, digital cognitive assessments, voice and motion analysis, advanced brain imaging techniques, and the use of biomarkers. These methods not only help accurately identify individuals at risk but also offer timely opportunities for mechanism-targeted therapeutic interventions.
In addition, Professor Lin shared the latest advances in gene therapy and monoclonal antibody treatments, highlighting that Taiwan’s neurology community has already implemented some of these therapies in clinical practice. This signifies a shift in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases—from being untreatable to being manageable and capable of slowing disease progression.
She also called for greater attention to brain health, advocating for lifestyle modifications—including diet, exercise, and management of chronic conditions—to improve quality of life and delay neurodegeneration as part of a more holistic approach to health management.
Key Highlights
- Taiwan has entered a super-aged society; the proportion of individuals aged 65+ will reach 25% by 2030.
- Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease are the most common neurodegenerative diseases, typically beginning after age 60.
- Neurodegeneration progresses gradually, with prodromal symptoms appearing up to 20 years before clinical onset.
- Digital cognitive testing, as well as voice and motion analysis technologies, support early screening and monitoring.
- Gene therapy and monoclonal antibody drugs have received FDA approval and are now in clinical use in Taiwan.
- Biomarkers and brain imaging enhance diagnostic accuracy and support early detection.
- Lifestyle interventions—such as diet, exercise, and chronic disease control—are key non-pharmacological strategies for slowing neurodegeneration.
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