The test for Alzheimer’s disease is a simple blood test that identifies protein deposits called amyloid. These deposits accumulate in the brain, leading to damage to nerve cell communication, destruction of brain tissue, and indicating the presence of Alzheimer’s disease. Traditionally, Alzheimer’s has been diagnosed through medical history reviews and cognitive assessments. However, new biological markers can now accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s at an early stage without the need for invasive tests like lumbar punctures or brain mapping. This new approach allows for early detection, which can aid in determining suitable drug treatments and lifestyle changes to slow the progression of the disease.
Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease and the leading cause of dementia in old age. In Israel, around 150,000 individuals are currently living with dementia and Alzheimer’s, with projections indicating a tripling of this number by 2050. The new test for Alzheimer’s is available for individuals over 18 who have been referred by a doctor for cognitive testing. The test costs NIS 3,450 and can be combined with additional tests for specific drug treatment or genetic prediction of the disease at an extra cost. Currently, most private health insurances in Israel cover the test, and it is expected that health fund supplementary insurances will also subsidize it in the near future.
The test for Alzheimer’s provides a revolutionary approach to early detection and intervention for the disease. By identifying biomarkers in the blood, neurologists can accurately diagnose Alzheimer’s at an early stage, allowing for more effective treatment and lifestyle changes to mitigate the disease’s progression. This new test offers hope for individuals at risk of Alzheimer’s and could significantly impact the management of this debilitating condition in the future.