Europe must do more to tackle Alzheimer's disease says Liz Lynne MEP

11.49.30pm GMT Wed 4th Feb 2009

West Midlands Liberal Democrat MEP Liz Lynne has today welcomed the adoption of a written declaration by the European Parliament on the need to recognise Alzheimer's disease as a health priority.

The written declaration, which was signed by over half of the European Parliament's members, including Liz Lynne, will now force a debate calling for more action to be taken at a European level to help fight against the disease.

The declaration calls on the European Commission, as well as the EU's Member States, to promote pan- European research into the causes, prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's and to do more to assist both Alzheimer's sufferers and carers in managing the disease.

Liz Lynne, who is Co- Chair of the European Parliament's All Party Intergroup on Ageing and a long time campaigner on Alzheimer's disease, welcomed the success of the declaration as a small step towards improving the quality of life for Alzheimer's sufferers.

"Alzheimer's is a truly terrible disease that causes immense distress for both those affected by it and their family and friends. I firmly believe we must do far more to tackle this disease both in terms of finding ways to prevent or even cure Alzheimer's, but also in ensuring that people who care for people with the disease are given the support they need.

"With an ageing population the problem is going to get worse, this is why it is vital that we act now to combat Alzheimer's disease. I am very pleased at the support amongst my fellow MEPs for the written declaration and hope that both the European Commission and the Member States will take on board the need for swift and comprehensive action."