A groundbreaking tool involving a finger-prick blood test and an online brain assessment has been developed to estimate an individual's risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to new research published in Nature Communications.
The study involved 174 participants who administered the test at home and posted samples back to researchers. The finger-prick blood test measured biomarkers p-tau217 and GFAP, associated with Alzheimer's and brain decline. Participants also completed online cognitive assessments. Combining these tests can identify a person's likelihood of developing Alzheimer's and prioritise them for further testing and support.
Dr Richard Oakley, associate director of research and innovation at the Alzheimer's Society, outlined key risk factors and lifestyle changes that can help reduce dementia risk.
Risk Factors You Cannot Change
Age
Age is one of the biggest risk factors. After 65, the risk of developing Alzheimer's doubles roughly every five years, due to natural protein buildup like amyloid and tau in the brain.
Sex
Women over 65 are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer's as men. The reasons are unclear, but research is exploring hormones and menopause.
Genes
Genetic mutations passed through families can predispose individuals to dementia. Fewer than 10 in 1,000 Alzheimer's cases are due to familial genes. The APOE4 gene increases risk but does not guarantee dementia.
Health Conditions
Vascular damage from restricted blood flow can contribute to Alzheimer's. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, strokes, and cardiovascular disease all increase risk.
Modifiable Lifestyle Factors
The 2024 Lancet Commission report found that 45% of dementia cases are linked to 14 modifiable risk factors: education quality (5%), social isolation (5%), air pollution (3%), traumatic brain injury (3%), hearing loss (7%), depression (3%), high blood pressure (2%), type 2 diabetes (2%), obesity (1%), physical inactivity (2%), smoking (2%), excessive alcohol (1%), uncorrected vision loss (2%), and high cholesterol (7%).
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Risk
Dr Oakley advises quitting smoking, drinking in moderation, eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active. Controlling cardiovascular health is crucial: "What's good for your heart is good for your head." Staying socially connected by picking up hobbies and engaging with others also plays a vital role in reducing dementia risk.
