Former Channel 4 News presenter Jon Snow reveals Alzheimer's disease diagnosis

Former Channel 4 News presenter Jon Snow has been living with Alzheimer's disease, the Alzheimer's Society has said.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia.

"Veteran news anchor Jon Snow has shared that he's living with dementia, speaking publicly for the first time to raise awareness of a condition affecting around one million people across the UK," the Alzheimer's Society said.

The charity said the 78-year-old has decided to speak out in a new documentary which will air on Channel 4 later this month.

The prime minister praised Mr Snow as a "true giant in journalism" and said his decision to go public with his diagnosis is "helping others feel less alone and raising awareness of a condition that affects so many families".

Michelle Dyson, CEO of Alzheimer's Society, 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.

"I would encourage anyone needing help or information to call our Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456 or visit alzheimers.org.uk."

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Mr Snow revealed he has had the disease since 2023 and that before his diagnosis he was reluctant to see a doctor and had insisted there was nothing wrong.

The journalist also revealed he was part of a clinical trial for the condition and has previously spoken about how his mother, Joan, struggled with Alzheimer's in the years leading up to her death.

The disease is a physical illness which damages a person's brain, eventually causing dementia, according to Alzheimer's Society.

Louisa Compton, head of news, current affairs, specialist factual and sport at Channel 4 said: "It is a profound privilege that we are able to document his last big investigation, in a sensitively made film that frames Jon's current affairs nous alongside a new life lived with Alzheimer's.

"We hope this film will go a long way to raise awareness of how to live whilst facing a life-changing diagnosis."

(c) Sky News 2026: Former Channel 4 News presenter Jon Snow reveals Alzheimer's disease diagnosis