AI Generated Image
New Alzheimer's blood test predicts who is likely to develop dementia in 5 to 10 years
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- A Harvard-led study found that a blood test measuring the protein p-tau217 can predict the risk of cognitive decline related to Alzheimer's disease up to 10 years before symptoms appear.
- 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 cognitive impairment within 10 years.
- The blood test offers predictive information beyond standard brain scans and genetic testing, potentially allowing earlier diagnosis and intervention.
- Researchers caution that p-tau217 alone cannot fully predict dementia risk, as other factors like age, genetics, and kidney function also play roles.
- Experts highlight that earlier detection through such tests could transform dementia treatment and prevention by enabling interventions during the silent, asymptomatic stage.
