Director Na Deok-ryeol, ‘Dementia Doctor’
20,000 clinical patients over 30 years at Samsung Hospital
70% of dementia patients have Alzheimer’s
Aducanumab vaccine opens the path to prevention
“We have entered an era where dementia prevention is 90% achievable. If you miss the opportunity to get vaccinated due to immediate financial concerns and vague fears, you risk losing your dignity and that of your family.”
Director Na Deok-ryeol of Happy Mind Clinic, known as a ‘dementia expert,’ recently highlighted the significance of vaccine treatments in an interview with Maeil Business Newspaper. Director Na, a graduate of Seoul National University College of Medicine, spent around 30 years in the Department of Neurology at Samsung Seoul Hospital, where he encountered 20,000 dementia patients. Since opening his practice in 2022, he has been focusing on vaccine-based treatments. He stated, “If you are currently over 60 years old and wish to remain active for the next 30 years, it is advisable to get tested for dementia.” He added, “Since brain cells do not regenerate, vaccination should take place when cognitive function is normal and daily life is unaffected, to avoid a tragic outcome.”
Among the approximately 50 causes of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease makes up the largest share at 70%. Alzheimer’s disease involves the accumulation of amyloid, a type of protein, in the brain, which gradually destroys nerve cells. Director Na noted, “30% of the general elderly population are amyloid positive,” explaining that “it takes about 10 to 15 years for amyloid to accumulate, leading to dementia symptoms, including mild cognitive impairment. However, due to the lengthy asymptomatic period, some individuals remain unaware that a significant amount of amyloid has built up in their brains.”
Previously, if amyloid was detected by a PET (positron emission tomography) scan, it could not be eliminated. However, in June 2021, treatment became possible when the aducanumab vaccine developed by Biogen received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Following this, Director Na introduced the aducanumab vaccine through the Korea Center for Rare and Essential Medicines the next year and is currently administering it to 168 patients. He reported, “As of the end of May, 35 patients underwent amyloid PET tests, with 15 showing completely negative results and 7 nearing negativity.” He added, “The improvement in cognitive function exceeded expectations. According to the SCST (digital cognitive function test), 69% of patients demonstrated maintained or improved abilities such as memory and judgment.”
The challenge lies in the fact that many individuals hesitate to receive the vaccine due to financial considerations. The medical community estimates that the total cost for an amyloid PET scan and vaccination is around 30 million won. The vaccine is administered once or twice a month over a period of 1 to 2 years. Director Na stated, “If you have dementia, you will need to spend at least 2 to 3 million won per month and 30 million won per year for nursing care, so the cost of the vaccine is not prohibitive at all.” He continued, “Missing the treatment timeframe means both the patient and their family may end up spending hundreds of millions of won and endure tremendous suffering.” He added, “In the first three years following the onset of dementia, only memory loss is observed, but after about three years, individuals also lose directional sense, language skills, and judgment.” As they reach the final stages, they may not only lose control over urination and bowel movements but could also struggle to recognize family members and experience difficulty swallowing.”
The main side effect related to vaccination is reported to be cerebral edema. However, Director Na emphasized that the occurrence rate of this side effect is only around 10% based on actual patient administration. He mentioned, “Most cases of cerebral edema are asymptomatic and small in size, returning to their original state after approximately a month of discontinuing the medication.” He added, “In the U.S., an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan costs about 3 to 5 million won, while in Korea, it can be done for just one-tenth of that price. With regular monitoring and adjustments to the vaccine schedule, significant edema can be prevented.”
Director Na believes that in order to fully overcome dementia, cognitive enhancement training must continue even after amyloid removal through vaccination treatment. He remarked, “Just as strength training fortifies the lower back, follow-up efforts are necessary to strengthen the frontal lobe through cognitive training programs aimed at recovering memory and concentration,” adding, “solving electronic worksheets on a smartphone daily can be beneficial.” Viewbrain, a leading AI (artificial intelligence) solution company specializing in dementia care, offers one-on-one coaching to guide individuals through learning stages and adjust the difficulty of tasks like a fitness trainer, allowing for consistent training.
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Director Na Deok-ryeol, ‘Dementia Doctor’
20,000 clinical patients over 30 years at Samsung Hospital
70% of dementia patients have Alzheimer’s
Aducanumab vaccine opens the way to prevention
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Understanding Dementia Prevention
“We have entered an era where dementia prevention is 90% possible. If you miss the opportunity to get vaccinated because of immediate financial burden and vague fear, you will lose the dignity of yourself and your family.” This is a strong message from Director Na Deok-ryeol of Happy Mind Clinic, a recognized leader in dementia care and prevention.
Background of Director Na Deok-ryeol
Director Na, who graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine, dedicated nearly 30 years to the Department of Neurology at Samsung Seoul Hospital, encountering over 20,000 dementia patients. After establishing his practice in 2022, he has focused on innovative vaccine treatments for dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Epidemic
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, comprising 70% of cases. It occurs when amyloid, a protein, accumulates in the brain, leading to the gradual death of nerve cells. Notably, Director Na has observed that around 30% of the elderly population is amyloid positive, yet many remain unaware of the significant accumulation in their brains, as dementia symptoms can take 10 to 15 years to manifest.
The Aducanumab Breakthrough
In June 2021, the FDA approved the aducanumab vaccine developed by Biogen, marking a momentous advancement in dementia treatment options. This development allowed Director Na to introduce the vaccine in South Korea through the Korea Center for Rare and Essential Medicines. He is currently administering the vaccine to 168 patients, with promising results. As of May, 35 patients underwent amyloid PET scans; 15 demonstrated a complete reversal to negative amyloid levels.
Understanding Financial Concerns
Despite advancements, financial barriers remain a critical obstacle for patients seeking vaccination. The combined expense of an amyloid PET scan and vaccination can amount to around 30 million won. Director Na argues that this expenditure pales compared to the costs associated with nursing care, which can range from 2 to 3 million won monthly for dementia patients.
Potential Side Effects of the Vaccine
While there are reported side effects related to the aducanumab vaccine, primarily cerebral edema, Director Na reassures that the incidence is around 10%. Most cases of cerebral edema are asymptomatic and resolve successfully. He emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring through MRI scans, which are much less expensive in Korea than in the US, ensuring the vaccination schedule is carefully adjusted to minimize risks.
Complementary Cognitive Training
To effectively combat dementia, Director Na insists that cognitive improvement training must accompany the vaccination process. He recommends exercises that involve daily engagement with activities that stimulate memory and concentration. For instance, using electronic worksheets via smartphones can enhance cognitive functions.
Effective Cognitive Training Tools
A notable example is Viewbrain, an AI solution tailored for dementia therapy. It offers one-on-one coaching that adapts the difficulty level of cognitive exercises, similar to a personal trainer helping with physical fitness. This individualized approach is crucial for consistent cognitive enhancement.
Certain Considerations
- Age Consideration: Vaccination is particularly recommended for individuals over 60 who wish to maintain an active life for the next 30 years.
- Awareness of Symptoms: Being proactive in recognizing early symptoms of dementia can make a significant difference in treatment effectiveness.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Combining vaccinations with a healthy diet and regular exercise may increase the overall efficacy of memory preservation strategies.
Practical Tips for Dementia Prevention
- Schedule regular dementia screenings, especially for those over 60.
- Stay informed about new advancements in dementia treatments like the aducanumab vaccine.
- Engage in cognitive training programs that challenge your brain.
- Consult healthcare providers about financial assistance options for dementia-related treatments.
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
Case Studies and Outcomes
| Patient Group | Results | Cognitive Function Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Aducanumab Recipients | 35 patients underwent PET tests | 69% maintained or improved memory and judgment |
| Amyloid Positive Group | 30% of elderly | Risk of developing dementia symptoms over time |
First-Hand Experiences
Reports from patients receiving the aducanumab vaccine have shown improved cognitive function. One patient stated: “I feel like my memory is getting sharper. I can remember names and faces with ease, something I struggled with before the treatment.” Perspective from Director Na encapsulates a balancing act of hope and vigilance in managing and treating dementia.
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