China is waging war on Alzheimer’s. What can its approach teach the rest of the world?

Nature

by Rachel Fieldhouse

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

China is making significant strides in addressing Alzheimer’s disease, particularly as its aging population faces a growing threat from dementia. The country, which already accounts for nearly 30% of global Alzheimer’s cases, is investing heavily in research and development to tackle this epidemic. By 2030, the Chinese government aims to enhance screening, diagnosis, and treatment through various programs. This approach includes developing new drugs, exploring innovative surgical techniques, and leveraging traditional Chinese medicine. The focus on cutting-edge research and attracting top scientists, including expatriates returning from abroad, positions China as a potential leader in Alzheimer’s research. The urgency stems from projections that the number of Alzheimer’s patients in China could rise to 66 million by 2050, with some estimates even exceeding 100 million. This demographic shift is compounded by a declining birth rate, leaving fewer working-age individuals to support the elderly population. To address this, China has allocated substantial funding for research—around $91.5 billion in 2024 alone—to cover both basic and applied science. While specific Alzheimer’s funding lags behind that of the U.S., its rapid growth and focus on young, innovative scientists are generating global interest. China’s efforts extend to collaborations with international researchers and the establishment of

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Originally published on Nature on 2/24/2026