I am pleased to inform you that “Neuroscience Laboratory Japan (NSLJ)” established as a general incorporated association, aimed at raising awareness of Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases, and conducting research and development pertaining to their diagnosis and treatment methods.
As you may know, Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease that has a high prevalence, along with Alzheimer’s disease. It has been designated and specified by the Japanese government as a refractory disease. It mainly develops in middle aged and older individuals over 40, and the morbidity rate rises sharply especially among elderly people aged 65 and older. Parkinson’s disease is said to affect approximately 1 out of every 1,000 people in Japan, and it is estimated that there are over 100,000 patients throughout Japan. The number is expected to grow even further with the onset of aging society.
Among the diseases specified by the government, Parkinson’s disease is relatively well known in society. Research on this disease, such as the development of treatment drugs and new treatment methods, is therefore being carried out by numerous research institutes and researchers. Even by looking at past history, I can see that its treatment has made remarkable progress. On the other hand, we still have a long way to go to obtain radical treatment and complete cure. In my daily clinical practice, I am made aware that the QOL of patients who are fighting Parkinson’s disease is far from satisfactory in all respects.
I have therefore decided to establish this incorporated association, with the goals of promoting research to elucidate the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson’s disease, and carrying out awareness-raising activities aimed at increasing the recognition of these diseases in society, thereby contributing to enhancing our country’s healthcare and public welfare.
As our major activity policy, we will hold and support workshops and seminars on Parkinson’s disease and neurodegenerative diseases in Japan and overseas. By so doing, we aim to educate and raise awareness of the diseases, conduct research, and develop treatment methods. It is my sincere hope that, through these business projects, we could make the future of patients who fight Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases brighter, however little, and offer encouragement and support during their long treatment period.
I sincerely hope that you will agree with the objectives of our business operations, and offer your kind and generous support.
Sincerely yours,
Nobutaka Hattori
Representative Director,
General incorporated association Neuroscience Laboratory Japan
