Researchers are increasingly working on ways to identify disease before symptoms appear.
In the field of dementia, this is particularly relevant, as many people receive a diagnosis late in the course of the disease.
A new study is now exploring whether a very simple blood test could play a role in the future.
Long waiting times
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease can begin many years before memory problems develop.
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Nevertheless, the disease is often detected late. One reason is that the most accurate diagnostic tests require advanced equipment and are carried out in hospitals.
This creates inequality in access to diagnostic assessments and leads to long waiting times.
As a result, many people live with the disease without knowing it, limiting their ability to receive support and plan ahead.
A new study
The international Bio-Hermes-002 study is investigating whether a finger-prick blood test can identify early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
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The test measures three proteins in the blood, pTau217, GFAP, and NfL, which are associated with the disease.
The study includes 1,000 participants from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada.
Participants represent a wide range of disease stages, from no symptoms to early signs of Alzheimer’s.
The project is led by LifeArc and the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation, with support from the UK Dementia Research Institute.
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Why it matters
A simpler test could make it easier to identify people who need further examination.
It could also reduce pressure on healthcare systems if more individuals can be assessed at an earlier stage.
Dr. Susan Kohlhaas from Alzheimer’s Research UK says that early knowledge is important for both research and future treatment.
Sources: Alzheimer’s Research UK, and Bio-Hermes-002 study.
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