New research suggests a simple blood test could identify signs of Alzheimer's disease decades before symptoms manifest. A study published in The Lancet found that high levels of amyloid and p-tau217 biomarkers in midlife were associated with poorer cognitive performance over a five-year period.
Key findings from the study
The findings indicate that Alzheimer's neuropathology can be present in midlife, supporting the concept that the disease begins long before clinical symptoms emerge. A separate study proposed a novel brain scanning technique, MK6240, which proved more effective at detecting tau protein tangles earlier than existing methods.
Potential impact on diagnosis and treatment
Experts believe earlier detection through blood tests could revolutionise diagnosis, facilitate participation in clinical trials, and improve access to disease-modifying treatments. There is a goal to make these tests available on the NHS by 2029.
In a related development, researchers have identified five early signs of Alzheimer's that should not be ignored. These include memory loss, difficulty planning, confusion with time or place, trouble understanding visual images, and new problems with words in speaking or writing.
