As thousands of the world’s leading dementia researchers gather in London for the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference® (AAIC®) 2026, the London Convention Bureau is welcoming attendees by illuminating the London Eye in the Association’s signature purple, a symbol of the global commitment to advancing Alzheimer’s and dementia research. The iconic display aims to raise awareness of the effort to combat one of the world’s greatest public health challenges – the UK’s biggest killer – and to celebrate the scientific collaboration driving progress against it.
Suzanne Singleton, Head of Associations at the London Convention Bureau, said: “We’re proud to welcome the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, with London supporting the fight against dementia. Hosting world-leading scientific and medical events like AAIC reflects the capital’s position as a premier destination for international association conferences. The London Eye lighting up in purple is a powerful symbol of our city’s support for the global dementia community and our commitment to providing a platform for exceptional research, collaboration and lasting impact.”
Nearly 1 million people in the UK are living with dementia, a number projected to reach 1.4 million by 2040. More than 76,000 people died of dementia in 2024, making the disease the country’s biggest killer.
AAIC is the largest international forum to advance dementia science and clinical practice. AAIC 2026 will bring together more than 14,000 registered attendees – including researchers, dementia care clinicians and professionals and people living with dementia and their care partners – from 111 countries. The conference will showcase the latest research and advances in brain health, including blood tests that may provide earlier and more accurate Alzheimer’s diagnosis and predict future cognitive decline; globally adaptable lifestyle interventions to reduce dementia risk; promising new treatments for agitation in advanced Alzheimer’s disease; and research exploring the effects of professional football on brain health.
AAIC also features an event which is free to attend and open to all interested individuals, including people living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, family members, caregivers and the general public. The event is an extension of the conference, taking place the day after AAIC, allowing community members and clinicians to hear directly from global experts about the latest discoveries and what they mean for people affected by the disease. This event – AAIC For All – can be attended in person in London or virtually. The required registration can be completed online at: https://www.alz.org/aaic-for-all.
“As the burden of dementia grows worldwide, this gathering of the global dementia research community in London affirms a vital public health message: we’re seeing unprecedented momentum in the search for better ways to detect, treat and ultimately prevent Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias,” said Maria C. Carrillo, Ph.D., Alzheimer’s Association Chief Science Officer and Medical Affairs Lead.
“AAIC showcases discoveries from around the world that are transforming our understanding of brain health and moving us closer to a future where people can live longer, healthier lives free from the devastating effects of dementia.”
More than 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia, and that number is projected to increase to nearly 78 million by 2030 – highlighting the importance of global collaboration to accelerate research and improve care. The Alzheimer’s Association also offers information, education and support resources tailored for people living with dementia, caregivers and families in the United Kingdom.
