Alzheimer's blood test may show who's likely to develop it in 5 to 10 years
Summary
Researchers have developed a blood test called p-tau217 that may help predict whether healthy older adults will develop Alzheimer's symptoms within five to ten years. The test measures a protein linked to brain changes seen in Alzheimer's and could help select people for drug studies aimed at preventing the disease.Key Facts
- The p-tau217 blood test detects a form of tau protein related to Alzheimer's brain plaque and tangles.
- High levels of p-tau217 in healthy older adults show a 38% risk of cognitive problems in 5 years and 78% risk in 10 years.
- The test currently is used mainly to help diagnose Alzheimer's in people who already have cognitive issues.
- Researchers advise against healthy people seeking the test now, as it does not yet change treatment recommendations.
- The study analyzed data from 2,684 older adults tracked over many years, with 478 developing cognitive impairment.
- Some scientists caution that the 10-year risk estimate is less certain due to fewer people tracked for that long.
- Other health issues like heart problems could affect results, making it hard to predict Alzheimer's alone.
- The test may help speed up clinical trials by identifying high-risk individuals for new drugs or prevention strategies.
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