Dementia is one of the most urgent challenges facing Japan as it navigates its transition into a super-aged society. Approximately 12% of people aged 65 and older are living with the condition; when including those with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), roughly one in three seniors faces some form of cognitive symptom. Dementia is no longer a rare or exceptional disease—it is an issue that is close to all of us.
 
Designed as an accessible introduction, this book explains the complexities of dementia through a dialogue between a young humanities student and a professor. Even readers without a scientific background can easily follow along. Starting from the simple question, “What is dementia?”, the book covers a vast range of topics: brain mechanisms, neuron functions, various types of dementia, and the latest treatment and prevention strategies. Rich, realistic illustrations allow readers to visualize and intuitively grasp these concepts.
 
The book is organized into four "Lessons":
 
Lesson 1: Provides a foundational overview and clarifies the distinction between dementia and normal age-related forgetfulness.
Lesson 2: Explains the structure of the brain and the fascinating mechanisms behind memory formation.
Lesson 3: Focuses on Alzheimer’s disease—the cause of 70% of cases. It details how factors such as amyloid-beta, microglia, and tau protein contribute to neuronal death, while introducing the front lines of the "siege against Alzheimer’s," including groundbreaking antibody therapies like lecanemab.
Lesson 4: Examines the vital link between lifestyle habits—sleep, exercise, and diet—and dementia risk, offering practical steps you can take today.
 
Many people feel a vague anxiety, fearing there is no treatment for dementia. By the end of this book, that dread will be replaced by a clear understanding of what can be done and a proactive outlook on daily life. Whether you are a complete novice or already have some knowledge, this book offers fresh insights. It is the ideal starting point for undergraduate students looking to understand one of the most significant societal challenges of our time.
 

(Written by TOMITA Taisuke, Professor, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences / 2026)

Related Info

Lab website:
Tomita Lab Neuropathology and Neuroscience
https://neuropsc.f.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/index.html
 
Awards:
Baelz Prize 2nd Class (2011), Japan Society for Dementia Research Award (2013), Shimadzu Encouragement Prize (2018), Advanced Technology Award (2022), HIRUMA/Wagner Award (2023), among others
 
Author’s Interview:
Why do people become senile with age?  (“Tansei” Vol.45  January 27, 2023)
https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/focus/en/features/z1304_00235.html
 

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