New Blood Test for Alzheimer’s Sparks Controversy Among Researchers and Clinicians
Researchers and clinicians are divided over the recent introduction of a new blood test for Alzheimer’s disease. The test, called AD-Detect and offered by Quest Diagnostics, measures elevated levels of amyloid-beta proteins, a characteristic marker of Alzheimer’s. While the availability of such a test to consumers may seem promising, experts are expressing concerns about its scientific validity and potential consequences.
Alzheimer’s, a neurodegenerative disease that affects memory and cognitive function, is a widespread and feared condition. Currently, nearly 7 million older adults in the United States have Alzheimer’s, a number projected to double by 2060 if no medical breakthroughs occur. Against this backdrop, the market potential for a blood test is significant.
However, many researchers and clinicians remain unconvinced of the test’s efficacy and accuracy. They warn that false-positive results are highly possible and that older adults may not fully understand the implications of their test results. Additionally, the test originally priced at $399 (recently discounted to $299) and not covered by insurance, making it an expensive option.
The Alzheimer’s Association has cautioned that it is premature to offer this type of test directly to consumers and advised that it should only be taken under the supervision of a physician. The association highlights the need for further scientific research, peer-reviewed studies, and a better understanding of the test’s validity before endorsing its widespread use.
Quest Diagnostics, however, asserts that older adults can responsibly interpret and respond to AD-Detect results. The company emphasizes that the test is not intended to diagnose Alzheimer’s but rather to assess an individual’s risk of developing the condition. They believe that individuals who test positive may be motivated to discuss their cognitive symptoms with physicians or adopt brain-healthy behaviors such as exercise and maintaining healthy blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.
To obtain the test, individuals must report experiencing mild cognitive decline and at least one other risk factor on the AD-Detect website. The order is then forwarded to a Quest-paid doctor who will order a blood test to be administered at a Quest laboratory. Results, categorizing individuals as low, medium, or high risk, are provided on a secure patient portal. Post-test counseling is optional, but individuals can consult with a Quest-paid physician for a fee.
While a poll conducted by the University of Michigan suggests that seniors would take positive test results seriously and make efforts to improve their brain health, concerns remain among experts. Many agree that the test’s scientific research and evidence are lacking. They also question the test’s usefulness since a positive result does not definitively indicate that an individual will develop Alzheimer’s disease.
Moreover, cognitive symptoms prompting someone to take the test can arise from a range of other causes. Anxiety, depression, and hopelessness upon learning of the risk for Alzheimer’s are also potential consequences. Experts worry that individuals may not seek further evaluation and appropriate care due to these emotional responses.
Privacy and discrimination are additional concerns. There is currently no federal protection against discriminatory practices based on Alzheimer’s biomarker results, such as employment discrimination or denial of insurance coverage. Likewise, laws safeguarding the privacy of health information do not apply to laboratory tests marketed directly to consumers.
The introduction of Quest’s blood test is part of a changing landscape in Alzheimer’s care in the United States. The recent FDA approval of Leqembi, an anti-amyloid therapy, has increased the importance of early detection and diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction. Additionally, a proposed new definition of Alzheimer’s disease focuses on its biological basis, which could result in a diagnosis even in cognitively normal individuals.
In conclusion, while the availability of a blood test for Alzheimer’s disease might seem like a breakthrough, the scientific community remains skeptical. Concerns about the test’s accuracy, potential consequences for individuals, and the need for further research persist. Experts caution that the test should be approached with caution and that its results should be interpreted and acted upon with careful consideration.
