AFTD Hosts 15th ISFTD Conference in Philadelphia

The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) is hosting the 15th International Society for Frontotemporal Dementias (ISFTD) conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from October 8 to 11, 2026. This event, which brings together leading researchers, clinicians, and members of the FTD community from around the world, aims to advance knowledge into effective diagnostics, biomarkers, and therapies for frontotemporal degeneration (FTD).

AFTD, founded in 2011 and now with members representing 26 countries, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people affected by FTD and driving research toward a cure. The conference will feature presentations by experts on the latest research and approaches to care, with a particular focus on Caregivers Day on October 9. This day will include presentations by leading experts and allow caregivers to explore scientific posters highlighting ongoing research.

AFTD's CEO, Rachel Biblow, emphasized the importance of collaboration between researchers and those affected by FTD.

The relationship between AFTD and ISFTD will be highlighted at the Philadelphia meeting through the inaugural Holly Hayes Lecture on FTD, delivered by former AFTD CEO Susan L-J Dickinson. The lecture will focus on global leadership in research, care, and advocacy. It is supported by the Holly Hayes FTD Endowment Fund, established in 2024 through the generosity of family and friends of Holly Hayes, an individual whose life was cut short by FTD.

The ISFTD Conference will take place shortly after World FTD Awareness Week, September 28-October 4, 2026, providing an opportunity to build on the global conversation about FTD and highlight the progress being made toward better diagnosis, care, and treatments.

AFTD has long supported efforts to strengthen and accelerate the FTD research ecosystem. Its investments include funding for promising early-career investigators, collaborative scientific initiatives, engagement of people affected by FTD in research, and scientific meetings designed to advance understanding of the disease.

The conference will feature a wide range of activities, including scientific presentations, poster sessions, and networking opportunities. These events will foster collaboration and accelerate scientific progress, ultimately bringing the research community closer to better diagnostics, effective treatments, and a future free of FTD.

The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) is committed to driving research and raising awareness about FTD. Through its support of the ISFTD Conference, AFTD is helping to create the conditions for faster discovery and a future free of FTD.