Versorgungssituation von Demenzkranken kann durch Ginkgo biloba verbessert werden : Ergebnisse einer Studie zur versorgungsforschung hinsichtlich derLeistungsfähigkeit der Demenzkranken, der Lebensqualität der Pflegenden und der Gesamtkosten der Behandlung

Background and isssues: Ginkgo biloba-extracts are often used in therapy of patients with dementia. In this study, benefit and structure of Ginkgo biloba-extract EGb 761® in treatment of patients with dementia was examined. Patients and methods: For the assessment of quality of life of care-taking relatives and patients as well as treatment costs were documented. The study was conducted as a non-randomised, two-armed cohort study with an open design for 683 slightly or moderately demented patients, aged between 65 and 80 years. Society's perspective was taken. Barthel-Index and MMST were also documented. Because of significant differences at inclusion of both cohorts, a matched-pairs-analysis and multiple regression analysis conducted. Results: According to PLC a significant improvement in quality-of-life of care-taking relatives (p < 0.001) and patients (positive mood p = 0.018, negative mood p < 0.001) was only observed in the Ginkgo-cohort. Also Barthel-Index indicated an improvement in the Ginkgo-cohort (p ≤ 0,001). MMST-scores increased significantly only in the Ginkgo-cohort (p < 0.001). Average total cost per patient amounted to 3.614,75? in the standard-cohort, whereas these costs per patient in the Ginkgo-cohort amounted to 3.031,78? (p = 0.067). Results were confirmed by matched-pairs-analysis. Results: Ginkgo treatment has a valid place in care-taking structure of health services. Gingko attributes to a higher quality of life for both care-takers and patients, the progression of disease is slowed down and treatment costs are lower.