Cameron Advocates for Dedicated Dementia Drug Fund

Former Prime Minister David Cameron is advocating for the establishment of a dedicated fund to finance dementia drugs, a move he believes will grant thousands of Alzheimer's patients access to treatments capable of slowing disease progression. Cameron, who now serves as president of Alzheimer's Research UK, stated that Britain possesses medicines that can combat Alzheimer's but patients are currently unable to access them.

"For decades we have waited for treatments that can slow Alzheimer's disease," Lord Cameron told The Sunday Times. "The challenge now is making sure patients have the opportunity to benefit from that progress."

Cameron, whose mother died of Alzheimer's last year, suggested that a dedicated dementia drugs fund would be a logical step, referencing the cancer drugs fund he initiated 16 years prior. This fund was designed to overcome obstacles in accessing expensive new cancer treatments. "We found a way forward for cancer patients," he said. "I urge the Government to show the same determination for people affected by dementia."

The call comes amid ongoing negotiations between NHS officials, the medicines watchdog NICE, and manufacturers of two new Alzheimer's drugs: donanemab and lecanemab. These treatments, developed by Eli Lilly and Eisai, are notable for being the first licensed medicines demonstrated to slow the disease's progression, rather than merely manage symptoms. Their development represents a significant advancement in treating Alzheimer's.

Negotiations commenced in July with an anticipated resolution within 49 days but have since been prolonged. Reports indicate a deadlock concerning cost and patient access. Both drugs received licensing for use in Britain in 2024 and are available privately at an approximate annual cost of £80,000.

Clinical trials have indicated that donanemab and lecanemab can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by approximately 30 percent, potentially providing patients with an additional six months of slower deterioration. If approved for NHS use, an estimated 70,000 individuals in England could become eligible for these treatments, though they are only effective in the earliest stages of Alzheimer's.

Michelle Dyson, CEO of the Alzheimer's Society, expressed the urgency felt by patients awaiting approval. NHS officials, meanwhile, stated their commitment to securing a deal that balances patient access with value for taxpayers. A NICE spokesperson confirmed that the appraisal process has been paused while NHS England and the drug companies explore all avenues for a positive outcome.