May 2024 Alzheimer’s News

May 2024 Alzheimer’s News
Blood tests: The Next Frontier in Alzheimer’s Diagnosis. Blood tests for earlier detection of Alzheimer’s disease are one of the most promising emerging areas in Alzheimer’s research today. A study examined the use of blood-based biomarkers for Alzheimer’s in primary care and compared them to diagnostic accuracy of primary care physicians. Results found that, after cognitive testing and a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) , PCPs correctly detected the presence of Alzheimer’s -related brain changes or correctly diagnosed Alzheimer’s in approximately 55% of cases, while blood tests did so in more that 85% of cases. This preliminary study demonstrates that blood tests for Alzheimer’s have great potential for improving diagnostic accuracy and proper treatment of people living with Alzheimer’s.
You can learn more by going to www.alz.org/help-support/resources or the Alzheimer’s Helpline which is accessible 24/7 via 800-272-3900 and staffed by master’s level clinicians to assist with crisis situations, decision making, and disease information. You can find virtual dementia caregiver resources online at alz.org/covid19help. Tools and support are also available in Spanish.
Want to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association and what they do here in St. Louis? Visit alz.org and/or contact PUCC’s Faith Outreach Ambassador with the Alzheimer’s Association, Joyce Ruiz at joyceruiz7@gmail.com