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Alzheimer's blood test may predict cognitive decline a decade early
Fox News • • health
Key Points:
- A Harvard-led study found that a blood test measuring the protein p-tau217 can predict Alzheimer's-related cognitive decline up to 10 years before symptoms appear in older adults.
- The study tracked nearly 2,700 cognitively healthy adults around age 70 and found those with high p-tau217 levels had a 78% chance of impairment within 10 years, while moderate levels indicated a 45% risk.
- The p-tau217 biomarker offers predictive information beyond standard brain scans and genetic tests, potentially allowing earlier intervention and patient counseling.
- Researchers caution that p-tau217 alone cannot fully predict dementia risk, as factors like age, genetics, and kidney function also play roles, highlighting the need for further diverse and long-term studies.
- Experts emphasize that early detection during the silent stage of Alzheimer's could transform diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies, enabling interventions before memory loss begins.
