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New Alzheimer's Blood Test: Early Detection Breakthrough
17 Dec
Summary
- Alzheimer's more prevalent in over-85s than previously thought.
- Blood test identifies Alzheimer's biomarkers, aiding early detection.
- 11% of over-70s eligible for drugs slowing early disease stages.
New research indicates a higher prevalence of Alzheimer's disease among individuals over 85, surpassing previous estimates. The study utilized a straightforward blood test to identify specific protein biomarkers associated with cognitive decline, underscoring the significance of early detection.
Analysis of over 11,000 blood samples revealed that Alzheimer's disease neuropathological changes (ADNC) increased with age. Notably, approximately 11% of participants over 70 met the criteria for antibody treatments that can potentially slow the disease's progression, suggesting a substantial number could benefit from early intervention.
Experts emphasize that detecting dementia signs early is vital for addressing this global challenge. While these blood tests show promise for widespread use, further evidence is needed for NHS integration, as current diagnostic methods include lumbar punctures and PET scans.
