DBS 'is a safe and positive' treatment for Alzheimer's disease

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been found to have a positive effect on the early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, it is claimed.

A team of scientists at the Toronto Western Hospital claim that their study shows that DBS is safe, with all patients leaving hospital within two or three days of surgery.

Study leader Dr Andres Lozano said that of the sick patients treated three are believed to have better memory and cognitive function than they would have if the Alzheimer's disease had been allowed to run its normal course.

Dr Lozano explained: "Not only is this a safe procedure, but that the evidence is there to warrant a bigger trial.

"Any amount of time that extends quality of life and quality years to someone with Alzheimer's may be a benefit."

The Alzheimer's Research Trust currently estimates there to be more than 820,000 people in the UK who are currently living with some form of dementia.

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