Blood tests now set to bring faster diagnosis of Alzheimer’s
LOS ANGELES: Blood tests for Alzheimer’s could be available on the public health within five years, leading to faster, wider diagnoses and earlier treatment.
The country’s two leading dementia charities are funding a £5 million study to bring already-developed blood tests “the final mile” into clinical use. Dr Fiona Carragher, from the Alzheimer’s Society, said that this would tackle the heartbreaking struggles faced by families in getting a diagnosis, and help to prepare the way for new treatments, which rely on early detection.
Most people are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s after experiencing memory difficulties and going to their GP. They are then referred to a memory clinic where cognitive tests are performed. For almost all of those who do receive a diagnosis, it will come through a patchwork of different assesments.