Alzheimer’s disease has reached a new milestone in the United States, with an estimated 7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older now affected by the condition, according to data from the Alzheimer’s Association.
The majority of those affected are 75 years old or older, accounting for nearly three-fourths (74%) of the total. Younger adults, particularly those between 30 and 64, also face a significant risk, with approximately 200,000 Americans estimated to have young-onset dementia.
Researchers have found that people’s desire for early detection and treatment is high, with 91% wanting a blood test to detect Alzheimer’s disease before symptoms appear. A staggering 95% would want testing when they experience early symptoms. This interest in early detection is driven by the desire for access to treatments that can slow the progression of the disease.
The survey also highlights people’s willingness to take risks in order to manage and treat their condition, with 92% open to taking a medication that could slow Alzheimer’s progression. Furthermore, respondents expressed strong support for other options such as medications that lessen symptoms (94%) and education and support for lifestyle changes (90%).
However, the rise in Alzheimer’s cases is also raising concerns about access to early detection and treatment. The Trump administration has been criticized for cutting or delaying dementia research efforts, which could have significant implications for the development of new treatments.
In light of these findings, the Alzheimer’s Association is preparing new guidelines on blood biomarker tests and cognitive assessment tools, both of which are expected later this year. While the association does not currently advocate for routine diagnostic testing in asymptomatic individuals, it is working to address ethical concerns related to diagnosis and treatment.
Source: https://www.medpagetoday.com/neurology/alzheimersdisease/115347