A public event held in Gijón brought together experts in neurology, genetics, prevention and care to discuss recent advances in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The initiative, titled Alzhéimer Superando mitos (“Alzheimer: Overcoming Myths”), was organised as part of the Asturias pilot under JADE Health’s Work Package 10, highlighting the region’s contribution to the Joint Action through the work of SESPA and FICYT, with a focus on awareness raising, early diagnosis, person-centred care and stigma reduction. 

On 19 March 2026, Gijón hosted the public event Alzhéimer Superando mitos (“Alzheimer: Overcoming Myths”), organised by FICYT  in collaboration with the City Council of Gijón as one of the actions developed within the JADE Health WP10 pilot in Asturias. The session brought together about one hundred attendees, including health professionals, researchers, institutional representatives and citizens, to reflect on current challenges in dementia prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care. 

As part of the Asturias pilot, the event reflected the objectives of Work Package 10, which focuses on vulnerable groups and stigma awareness raising. In this context, the Gijón session contributed to improving public understanding of dementia, supporting earlier recognition of the disease and encouraging more inclusive and informed approaches to care. 

The programme combined scientific and social perspectives on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Among the speakers, Dr Manuel Menéndez, neurologist at HUCA and a professional involved in JADE Health in Asturias, addressed recent developments in diagnosis and treatment, including blood-based biomarkers and progress in monoclonal antibody therapies for early stages of the disease. His intervention also highlighted how SESPA and FICYT are contributing to the Joint Action by supporting prevention, promoting earlier diagnosis and strengthening care pathways for people living with dementia and their families. 

The event also underlined that dementia must not be approached only from a clinical perspective. Speakers highlighted the importance of recognising the experiences, emotions and dignity of people living with dementia, promoting respectful care and encouraging the use of non-stigmatising language. These messages are fully in line with the spirit of JADE Health, which seeks to reduce stigma and foster greater awareness among citizens, communities and vulnerable groups. 

The open format of the session allowed attendees to raise questions directly with the experts and take part in a dynamic discussion on the concerns and reflections prompted by the topic. This exchange helped create a closer connection between professionals and the public, while reinforcing the event’s role as a space for awareness raising, dialogue and stigma reduction. 

Other contributions came from Marta Pisano, who addressed advance care planning and prior instructions in dementia care; Victoria Álvarez, who discussed genetic and environmental factors linked to Alzheimer’s disease; Miriam Álvarez, who focused on early detection and prevention through healthy lifestyles; and Teresa Martínez, who highlighted the importance of person-centred care models. 

By bringing together scientific evidence, social reflection and public dialogue, Alzhéimer Superando mitos illustrated the type of multi-sector collaboration encouraged by JADE Health.