Neurodegenerative diseases represent a significant public health challenge in Europe and Spain, driven by the aging population. Disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, Multiple Sclerosis and Huntington’s disease lead to progressive neuronal decline, severely impacting patients, families and healthcare systems. As life expectancy rises, the prevalence of these conditions is projected to double by 2050, exacerbating the socio-economic and healthcare burden. Early genetic diagnosis has emerged as a key tool for identifying risks as enabling pre-symptomatic interventions, although challenges like high costs and limited access persists. These diagnoses present ethical and social dilemmas, including anxiety, stigmatization and discrimination, which necessitate protective policies, equitable access, and comprehensive psychosocial support. This study highlights the critical need for strategies addressing the biopsychosocial impacts of these diseases, empowering patients and their families through informed decision-making and fostering resilience among caregivers. The narratives of those affected underline the emotional and societal challenges posed by genetic diagnoses and underscore the transformative potential of inclusive education, policy reforms, and the promotion of scientific literacy to ensure equitable health outcomes.

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Genetic Diagnosis of Neurodegenerative Diseases: Social Implications on Elderly

  • Adriana V. Muñoz-Ortega,
  • David Conde Caballero,
  • Lorenzo Mariano Juárez

摘要

Neurodegenerative diseases represent a significant public health challenge in Europe and Spain, driven by the aging population. Disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, Multiple Sclerosis and Huntington’s disease lead to progressive neuronal decline, severely impacting patients, families and healthcare systems. As life expectancy rises, the prevalence of these conditions is projected to double by 2050, exacerbating the socio-economic and healthcare burden. Early genetic diagnosis has emerged as a key tool for identifying risks as enabling pre-symptomatic interventions, although challenges like high costs and limited access persists. These diagnoses present ethical and social dilemmas, including anxiety, stigmatization and discrimination, which necessitate protective policies, equitable access, and comprehensive psychosocial support. This study highlights the critical need for strategies addressing the biopsychosocial impacts of these diseases, empowering patients and their families through informed decision-making and fostering resilience among caregivers. The narratives of those affected underline the emotional and societal challenges posed by genetic diagnoses and underscore the transformative potential of inclusive education, policy reforms, and the promotion of scientific literacy to ensure equitable health outcomes.