Alzheimer’s research advances with new blood tests and therapies

Medical advancements are transforming the approach to Alzheimer’s disease through improved diagnostic tools and new therapeutic options. A significant development is the emergence of blood tests, specifically those measuring the p-tau217 protein, which can identify biological changes associated with the disease. Researchers in South Korea have found that these markers can track the effectiveness of treatments like lecanemab, potentially offering a simpler alternative to expensive brain scans.

In the therapeutic field, the authorization of anti-amyloid therapies in the European Union marks a shift toward treatments that aim to slow cognitive and functional decline rather than just managing symptoms. While these drugs target the buildup of amyloid in the brain, experts emphasize they are not a cure and require careful patient selection to manage risks such as minor brain bleeds.

Global health experts highlight the critical importance of early diagnosis to preserve patient independence and plan future care. As populations age, the prevalence of dementia is expected to rise significantly. In Turkey, officials have noted that while new diagnostic tools like p-tau217 blood tests are becoming available in some laboratories, ensuring equitable access to these innovations and new medications remains a primary challenge for the healthcare system.