Swedish trials have found a simple blood test can now detect Alzheimer’s up to 15 years before symptoms appear. Experts say it could pave the way for a national screening program for those people over the age of 50. The test works by measuring levels of a specific protein called Ptau 217 found in the blood. This protein indicates biological changes taking place in the brain during Alzheimer’s. The higher the level of this protein, the more advanced the disease is within the individual.
The blood test could identify patients as likely, intermediate, or unlikely to have Alzheimer’s disease. Current treatments for the disease could also be improved by working with an early diagnosis. Doctors are hopeful that this test, which is already commercially available, combined with regular treatments, will have a dramatic impact on the progressive nature of Alzheimer’s. As with most illnesses. The earlier the detection, the better the chances are to defeat it.
