Former news presenter Jon Snow reveals Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis
The renowned news anchor, 78, reveals that he has secretly lived with the disease for four years as part of a new documentary
Renowned news anchor Jon Snow has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
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The most common form of dementia, the announcement comes ahead of a forthcoming documentary for the Alzheimer’s Society depicting life with the disease.
An instantly recognisable name who started his career at LBC, Snow, 78, went on to become Channel 4's longest serving news anchor before retiring in 2021.
Revealing the diagnosis alongside his wife, Precious Lunga, ahead of the upcoming documentary, the couple hope to shine a light on the disease, with the pair opening up on life with the condition.
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Speaking of the diagnosis, Precious revealed the news anchor's decline began following his retirement in 2021.
As part of the docuSnow, 79, said: "At the beginning I wanted to hide it, there’s so much prejudice. Any sort of hint of mental decay, you’re sort of dead.
"There are moments when it pops up but it’s not an all day every day condition, and that’s what I cling onto."
His diagnosis carried extra weight because his mother Joan struggled with Alzheimer’s disease for a decade before dying in her eighties.
He feared the same fate. Precious believes people with dementia can still be valuable members of society.
"Life doesn’t end with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, but it changes dramatically,” said Precious.
"You can have Alzheimer’s and still be a valuable member of society but you need support to navigate it."
Michelle Dyson CB, CEO of Alzheimer’s Society, praised the veteran anchor for his decision to go public.
She said: "Jon’s decision to talk publicly about his dementia diagnosis is a real act of courage and his story will resonate with so many.
"His support for Alzheimer’s Society will help spark a national conversation about dementia that we so desperately need. Despite being the UK’s biggest killer, dementia is still not treated with the same urgency as other major health conditions like cancer.
"Alongside his wife Precious, Jon is shining a light on the need for faster, fairer access to diagnosis. An early diagnosis can unlock vital support, help families plan ahead and potentially open the door to participation in clinical trials. Yet too many people across the country are still waiting far too long for a diagnosis.
"We look forward to working with Jon, whose long-standing commitment to speaking out against injustice will help ensure the harsh realities of dementia cannot be ignored by the UK Government and the NHS.
"I would encourage anyone needing help or information to call our Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456 or visit alzheimers.org.uk."
Sir Keir Starmer wrote on X: "A true giant in journalism, Jon Snow has spent his life asking difficult questions and telling important stories.
"Now, in sharing his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, he is helping others feel less alone and raising awareness of a condition that affects so many families."