Dementia is not exclusively a problem of the developed world.

Australia is already a world leader in dementia research, treatment and care.

Greater public recognition will also be critical in encouraging prevention and early intervention, and more generally in building public support to meet the challenges of dementia.

Advances in science and medical research and public health policies have meant that life expectancy for Australians is one of the highest in the world.

Our nation and those of the developed world must offer our own resistance to despot leaders who seek to commit murder on the basis of religion or race.

Synergy and serendipity often play a big part in medical and scientific advances.