The Stichting Alzheimer Onderzoek has awarded the Young Researcher Award 2024 (€ 50.000) to Prof. dr. Rose Bruffaerts for her innovative research into Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). The prestigious award recognises her motivation and ambition to contribute to the early diagnosis and treatment of this complex form of dementia, primarily affecting middle-aged persons.
Focus on international context and practical applicability
FTD is a relatively rare form of dementia, characterised by changes in behaviour and disturbances in speech and language. On top of the Young Researcher Award, Prof. Bruffaerts receives € 300.000 for a new research project. Although several speech- and language assessments have been developed for FTD, these are currently primarily designed in English. In this project, Prof. Bruffaerts wants to investigate the value of such assessments for patients speaking other languages. Her research will focus on the development of speech and language markers that are both sensitive and easily implementable in clinical practice, applicable for different languages and cultures.
"With this project, we want to lower the threshold for early detection, so healthcare providers can help patients in a faster and better way", says dr. Bruffaerts. "In addition, we are preparing the medical field for clinical trials into possible new treatments".
Innovative approach with EEG technology
The research project will make use of electroencephalography (EEG), a non-invasive technique that can map brain activity with a high temporal resolution. By using EEG, dr. Bruffaerts wants to unravel the neurobiological changes that lead to speech- and language impairment. These novel insights will contribute to earlier diagnosis and the development of personalized treatments.
A special award ceremony at the set of Familie
The award was presented by Hugo Sigal, ambassador of the foundation and Flemish actor/singer, on the filming set of the popular Flemish soap Familie. He highlights the importance of this research: "The work of dr. Bruffaerts is a spark of hope in the battle against this devastating disease. I am honoured to present her this award."
We thank Stichting Alzheimer Onderzoek for supporting innovative research that makes a difference for persons living with dementia and their families.