Blood test that gives 'a six-year early warning' of Alzheimer's

 

Manufacturers say a new blood test could detect Alzheimer's up to six years before it takes hold

A blood test the makers claim can detect Alzheimer's and Parkinson's up to six years before they take hold is to be launched this summer.

The test will allow doctors to alert those at risk of developing the conditions, and advise them of lifestyle changes such as improvements to their diet or more exercise.

It could also allow earlier treatment with drugs which slow the progress of the diseases.

But the breakthrough has raised fears that insurance companies could force people to undergo the check - and raise premiums for those deemed at risk.

Said by its creators to be 90 per cent accurate, the test measures the blood for proteins which can indicate the risk of brain disease, according to a report in Chemistry & Industry magazine.

U.S.-based manufacturer Power3 Medical Products plans to market the test in the U.S. and Greece later this year.

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