Latest news with #GatesNotes
Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
'No one has to watch someone they love suffer...': Bill Gates sees hope in the fight against Alzheimer's, and it's deeply personal, 5 years after his father's loss
Bill Gates sees hope in the fight against Alzheimer's: It's deeply personal; 5 years after his father's loss Five years ago, Bill Gates experienced one of the most severe personal losses of his life: seeing his father, William H. Gates Sr., suffer through the heartless advance of Alzheimer's disease. In a stunning new essay on Gates Notes, the Microsoft co-founder vividly remembers, 'Watching my brilliant, loving father go downhill and disappear was a brutal experience.' That experience has since driven his dedication to fighting this ruinous condition, not only through philanthropy, but through sheer technological and scientific push. On the cutting edge of Alzheimer's research today, Bill Gates finds reasons for real hope. Following his visit to Indiana University's School of Medicine in 2024, he was invigorated by what he described as "the latest breakthrough": blood tests that could diagnose Alzheimer's years before signs of the disease show up. Combined with recently approved medications that slightly slow the march of the disease, Gates feels the world is moving closer to a day when no one will have to suffer the agony of losing a loved one. As he states, 'We are closer than ever before to a world where no one has to watch someone they love suffer from this awful disease.' Bill Gates' fight against Alzheimer's is deeply personal Alzheimer's is not only a health or numerical problem for Bill Gates—it's personal. More than 7 million Americans have Alzheimer's today, including almost 1 in 9 individuals aged 65 and older. And although treatment advances have seemed glacial, Gates's path has been a witness to love-driven perseverance. Spurred on by his father's pain and his call to action, Gates has emerged as one of the most vocal voices urging more money, improved tools, and increased urgency in Alzheimer's research. Bill Gates on Alzheimer's: 'This simple blood test could change everything' When Gates visited IU's School of Medicine, he discovered a revolution in the making for Alzheimer's care: blood tests to diagnose Alzheimer's. The tests quantify the amount and ratio of amyloid plaques and tau proteins—Alzheimer's signatures in the brain, years before full-blown symptoms emerge. Early detection : Researchers now recognise that Alzheimer's disease starts as much as 20 years before the development of clinical symptoms. Scalable screening : Rather than expensive PET scans or invasive cerebrospinal fluid analysis, a routine blood draw might become a standard part of checkups. Proactive intervention : Precocious diagnosis by blood tests might lead to treatments that halt intellectual decline before such damage to the brain is permanent. Gates calls these advances a "game-changer"—not only for researchers, but also for families and caregivers who have felt helpless against the advancement of the disease. Two FDA-approved drugs: A modest win with massive implications Encouraging therapy isn't confined to diagnosis. In the past few months, the US Food and Drug Administration has licensed two novel Alzheimer's medications that have been demonstrated to moderately decelerate disease exacerbation. Though not cures, these medications constitute a significant turning point—from symptom treatment to addressing core pathology. Proof of concept : These approvals demonstrate proof of the amyloid hypothesis and lead to further innovation. Strengthened pipeline : Researchers and companies are increasingly likely to invest in comparable treatments, converting optimism into economic as well as health momentum. Gates's enthusiasm is palpable: 'When combined with early diagnostics, I really am excited about the future of treating this disease.' Bill Gates warns: Alzheimer's treatment progress at risk without public funding Despite advances in science, Gates warns of an impending crisis: dwindling public funding. Over the past few months, budgets for the National Institutes of Health and connected research agencies have been trimmed, just when momentum is gaining steam. He argues: This is exactly when investment is most needed. Government grants support large-scale clinical trials and early-stage science that private philanthropy cannot support on its own. Scaling up biotech instruments such as blood tests and treatments necessitates infrastructures which only governments can develop and sustain. 'If we pull back now, all this progress could grind to a halt—and no private initiative can fill that gap,' Gates writes. Bill Gates sees a turning point: 'Alzheimer's no longer feels hopeless' Over the past few years, Alzheimer's seemed like a black hole of despair—until now. Gates spotlights some of the reasons why the tide is turning: Technological convergence : Biomarker analysis enabled by AI, cheap genomic technologies, and wearable tech are improving detection accuracy and affordability. Early diagnosis culture : Screening for Alzheimer's might soon become part of normal healthcare, along with blood pressure and cholesterol tests. Global advocacy : An expanding group of caregivers, scientists, business leaders, and foundations making a difference. Tangible progress : From tests to therapies, the gradual trickle of breakthroughs is turning into a flood, exciting scientists as well as sufferers. Gates's vision: A future free from Alzheimer's tragedy For Bill Gates, fighting Alzheimer's is not about making headlines—it's about saving families the emotional anguish he suffered personally. He dreams of a world where: Early detection technologies detect the disease years before symptoms arise. Targeted treatments halt or slow the disease, maintaining quality of life. Funding and public support fuel a massive research pipeline. In his most passionate sentence, Gates pleads: 'We are on the cusp of turning the tide against dementia.' But he also warns that urgency must be followed by action—more money, more research, more courage in science. Also read | Jeff Bezos' Indian Creek property just got a $105 million neighbour; here's who bought the 'billionaire bunker' land
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Bill Gates opens up about his father's Alzheimer's battle, lauds medical advances; new study finds benefits in Rosemary herbs
Bill Gates, an American businessman and philanthropist, has expressed a strong enthusiasm about the recent advancements in the battle against Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, as he has a personal connection to the disease. Gates' father, William Gates, who died in 2020, lived with the disease. Sharing an essay published on Tuesday, June 17, on his blog, Gates Notes, the Microsoft co-founder shared his optimism, noting significant moves that have been made in understanding and treating the disease. The 69-year-old philanthropist showed his excitement had spiked after his visit to Indiana University's School of Medicine in 2024, where he got a first-hand look at the "latest breakthrough" in Alzheimer's research and development, which is the blood-based diagnostic tests. About 1 in every 9 people has Alzheimer's disease According to the note, over 7 million people in the United States, or about 1 in 9 people over the age of 65, have currently discovered they have Alzheimer's disease. Tragically, on Sunday, Leonard A. Lauder, co-founder of The Estée Lauder Companies, passed away at the age of 92. More than a business icon, Lauder was widely admired for his passion for art, generous philanthropy, and dedicated support of medical research, particularly in the fields of breast cancer and Alzheimer's. The news was confirmed by the Estée Lauder Companies. A big step forward in the fight against Alzheimer's: The FDA approved the first blood test to help diagnose the disease. Breakthroughs like this will make earlier, easier diagnosis possible—bringing us closer to better treatments and, someday, a cure. Alzheimer's disease is a form of dementia that involves the accumulation of abnormal protein clumps called plaques and tangles in the brain. These deposits damage and eventually kill the nerve cells, interfering with how they communicate with each other. The condition is progressive and currently irreversible, with symptoms worsening over time. However, recent research may have a solution to manage the condition better. New research shows the rosemary herb can help treat Alzheimer's Adding to the growing sense of momentum, new research has also turned attention to natural compounds with potential cognitive benefits. According to a recent report by The Independent, scientists are now studying rosemary, the aromatic Mediterranean herb, for its role in supporting brain health. The research suggests that rosemary, the aromatic herb native to the Mediterranean that has long been used in kitchens across the globe, can help manage brain health, reduce inflammation, and improve immune function. The research further indicates that rosemary could potentially play a role in combating Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia globally. But how does rosemary help treat Alzheimer's? The report suggests that rosemary boosts the blood flow, including to the brain, which can boost the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients, potentially supporting sharper mental function. Along with this, it also has a soothing effect on the brain. Research shows that its aroma may help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep. Since lower stress levels are linked to improved concentration and memory, rosemary's calming influence could contribute to better cognitive performance.
Hindustan Times
14-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Bill Gates who plans to give away most of his fortune shares take on Mark Zuckerberg's money plans
Bill Gates, who announced that he would give 99% of his wealth via the Gates Foundation, recently spoke about Mark Zuckerberg's plans for his fortune in a recent interview with Fortune. The philanthropist billionaire said that the Meta CEO is 'off to a very good start,' mentioning how he plans to 'give over 90% of his wealth.' 'There are exemplars, like Mark Zuckerberg, through the Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative is committed to give over 90% of his wealth, and he's off to a very good start,' Bill Gates says while discussing about young entrepreneurs and philanthropy. 'He's someone I talk to about a lot of things, including philanthropy,' Gates said. 'There are dozens and dozens of tech entrepreneurs in the Giving Pledge doing amazing giving,' he continued. Giving Pledge is a charitable campaign that encourages the world's wealthiest individuals and families to contribute to philanthropic causes. In an announcement on Gates Notes, the tech mogul wrote, 'I will give away virtually all my wealth through the Gates Foundation over the next 20 years to the cause of saving and improving lives around the world. And on December 31, 2045, the foundation will close its doors permanently.' 'This is a change from our original plans. When Melinda and I started the Gates Foundation in 2000, we included a clause in the foundation's very first charter: The organization would sunset several decades after our deaths. A few years ago, I began to rethink that approach. More recently, with the input from our board, I now believe we can achieve the foundation's goals on a shorter timeline, especially if we double down on key investments and provide more certainty to our partners,' Bill Gates explained. He added that the decision came to him at a 'moment of reflection'. He continued that 2025 marked several important milestones in his life, including the foundation turning 25, Microsoft turning 50, and himself turning 70. He also talked about his father turning 100, adding that he is the one who helped Gates start the foundation.
Time of India
10-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
I don't want to die rich…: Bill Gates will give away 99% of his wealth
Bill Gates In a significant philanthropic move, Bill Gates , co-founder of Microsoft and one of the world's wealthiest individuals, has announced plans to donate 99% of his estimated $200 billion fortune by the end of 2045. This decision includes the closure of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation , one of the most influential charitable organizations globally, by December 31, 2045. Gates emphasised his commitment to addressing urgent global challenges and ensuring that his wealth contributes to improving lives worldwide. Bill Gates sets 2045 deadline to donate 99% of wealth Initially, the Gates Foundation was intended to operate several decades beyond the deaths of its founders. However, Gates has revised this plan, opting for a more immediate impact. He stated, "I have decided to give my money back to society much faster than I had originally planned." Over the next two decades, the foundation aims to double its giving, allocating over $200 billion to various global initiatives. Operation Sindoor 'Pakistan army moving its troops in forward areas': Key takeaways from govt briefing 'Pak used drones, long-range weapons, jets to attack India's military sites' 'Attempted malicious misinformation campaign': Govt calls out Pakistan's propaganda (Image source: The Gates Notes) Gates Foundation targets global health, poverty, and education in final 20 years The Gates Foundation's future efforts will concentrate on several critical areas: Global health : Continuing the fight against diseases such as polio, malaria, and measles, and supporting vaccine development and distribution. Poverty alleviation : Implementing programs to reduce poverty through education, nutrition, and access to healthcare. Maternal and child health : Aiming to end preventable deaths among mothers and children by improving healthcare services and access. Education : Enhancing educational opportunities and outcomes, particularly in underserved communities. These focus areas reflect the foundation's commitment to addressing some of the most pressing issues facing humanity today. (Image source: The Gates Notes) Financial commitments and contributions Since its inception in 2000, the Gates Foundation has donated over $100 billion to various causes. The planned $200 billion in future donations represents a significant increase in philanthropic investment. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like AI guru Andrew Ng recommends: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around in 2025 Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo This funding will be sourced from Gates's personal wealth and the foundation's endowment, which includes contributions from other philanthropists such as Warren Buffett. Organizational changes and leadership In 2024, Melinda French Gates resigned from her role as co-chair of the foundation, leading to its rebranding as the Gates Foundation, with Bill Gates serving as the sole chairman. This leadership change aligns with the foundation's new strategic direction and accelerated timeline for impact. Addressing global aid reductions Gates has expressed concern over recent reductions in foreign aid by governments, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. He criticized these cuts, emphasizing that philanthropy cannot replace government aid and warning of potential setbacks in global health progress. Legacy and future outlook Gates's decision to give away the majority of his wealth is influenced by the philosophy of Andrew Carnegie, who believed that "the man who dies thus rich dies disgraced." By accelerating his philanthropic efforts, Gates aims to make a substantial impact on global challenges within his lifetime. The closure of the Gates Foundation by 2045 marks a significant shift in philanthropic strategy, focusing on immediate and measurable outcomes.
Hindustan Times
08-05-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Bill Gates accuses Elon Musk of ‘killing children'; warns about global disaster
Bill Gates, who recently announced that his Gates Foundation will close by 2045, went on to accuse the world's richest man, Elon Musk, of 'killing' children in poor countries by cutting the USAID budget. The 53-year-old Tesla chief is currently serving as President Trump's senior adviser and also leads cost-cutting initiatives as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) chief. 'The picture of the world's richest man killing the world's poorest children is not a pretty one,' Gates told The Financial Times, adding that the tech billionaire 'acted through ignorance' by shutting the department, which served as a conduit for US aid. In February, Elon Musk's cost-cutting team, Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), finalised shuttering the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). At that time, Musk, in an X post, wrote, 'USAID is a criminal organisation. Time for it to die.' Gates told the Financial Times that this abrupt halting of the funds had disastrous implications as it 'left life-saving food and medicines expiring in warehouses.' The tech mogul added that this could also lead to a resurgence of diseases like polio, measles, and HIV in several parts of the world. The Microsoft co-founder explained that the fund cuts by DOGE have led to the cancellation of grants to a hospital in Gaza Province, Mozambique. The medical facility helped pregnant women prevent passing HIV to their babies. Gates said to the outlet that the funds were cut after mistakenly believing that they were used to supply condoms to Hamas in Gaza in the Middle East. 'I'd love for him to go in and meet the children that have now been infected with HIV because he cut that money,' Gates added. Bill Gates, once the world's richest man himself, announced that he will give away virtually all his wealth 'through the Gates Foundation over the next 20 years to the cause of saving and improving lives around the world.' He further announced that in 2045, the foundation will permanently close its doors. 'This is a change from our original plans. When Melinda and I started the Gates Foundation in 2000, we included a clause in the foundation's very first charter: The organisation would sunset several decades after our deaths. A few years ago, I began to rethink that approach. More recently, with the input from our board, I now believe we can achieve the foundation's goals on a shorter timeline, especially if we double down on key investments and provide more certainty to our partners,' the tech billionaire explained in Gates Notes.
