A recent study from Columbia University has shown that a simple smell and memory test can predict the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia just as accurately as costly brain imaging.
This new approach could make it easier and more affordable for doctors to identify those at risk of cognitive decline.
Led by Dr. Davangere P. Devanand, professor of psychiatry and neurology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, the research offers hope that these tests could be used in everyday medical practice to help catch early signs of memory problems.
The study was published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia on October 10.
The study suggests that these simple tests—when used by trained doctors—could help predict who is likely to develop dementia later in life.
“Our study highlights a practical and cost-effective approach for predicting cognitive decline and dementia, which could greatly improve access to early diagnosis,” said Dr. Devanand.
“By using these simple tests, health care providers can gain additional clues for identifying those at risk, providing timely interventions, and increasing participation in clinical trials.”
The study followed 647 people for eight years as part of the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging. During this time, the researchers used two simple tests: the Brief Smell Identification Test (BSIT) and the Blessed Information Memory Concentration Test (BIMCT).
These tests were able to predict cognitive decline and dementia just as well as expensive amyloid brain scans, which are commonly used but not always available to everyone.
Over the course of the study, 102 participants developed memory problems, and 34 of them were diagnosed with dementia. The smell and memory tests were highly effective in identifying those who were most at risk.
One of the key advantages of these tests is that they can be easily used in primary care settings, where more complex diagnostic tools may not be available. Dr. Jeffrey Motter, co-author of the study, explained that these tests are simple, non-invasive, and affordable.
“This could open the door to earlier interventions and more widespread participation in Alzheimer’s prevention research,” he said.
This research is promising because it provides a practical way to detect Alzheimer’s risk earlier, giving patients and doctors more time to take action.
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