Racial Disparities in New Alzheimer's Drugs' Effectiveness Revealed

Two new drugs, Leqembi and donanemab, show promise in treating Alzheimer's by removing the beta amyloid protein from the brain. However, experts believe that these drugs may benefit white people more than Black people, who are twice as likely to have dementia. Black and Hispanic individuals were screened out of clinical trials at higher rates due to low amyloid levels, potentially excluding them from accessing these treatments. The higher rates of dementia in Black individuals are being investigated to determine if other factors contribute to the disparity. The FDA acknowledges the exclusion and urges companies to increase diversity in clinical trials. Cost is also a barrier, as Leqembi will cost $26,500 per year.