Kingston among first in Canada to offer new Alzheimer’s treatments

Photo: MBC News File Photo

KHSC is expanding access to disease-modifying drugs and developing a blood test to help identify patients who may benefit from earlier care.

Kingston Health Sciences Centre (KHSC) is among the first health sciences centres in Canada to offer access to new Alzheimer’s treatments, bringing specialized care closer to home for patients across southeastern Ontario.

The disease-modifying drugs are designed to slow Alzheimer’s progression in eligible patients, with the greatest benefits expected when treatment begins in the early stages.

Memory disorders specialist Dr. Durjoy Lahiri is working to establish Kingston as a regional referral centre for patients who would otherwise travel to Toronto or Ottawa.

Lahiri estimates 25 to 30 patients could receive infusions through KHSC within the next six to nine months.

KHSC has also developed a blood test to help identify patients who may benefit from further assessment. The work received funding from the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation and YGK Healthcare Champions.

The treatments are not a cure, but they aim to help eligible patients maintain their independence for longer.

Story by Alyssa Brush

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