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

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.

Chief executive Steve Rash said: "There is currently no diagnostic test for any neurodegenerative disease on the market. Diagnoses are currently based solely on a clinical diagnosis of symptoms.

The company says that by measuring a collection of 59 protein "biomarkers", the Nuro Pro test can even distinguish between Parkinson's, Alzheimer's and motor neurone disease.

Dr Susan Sorensen, head of research at the Alzheimer's Society said: "There are 700,000 people living with dementia in the UK, 62 per cent have Alzheimer's disease and this will rise to more than a million in less than 20 years.
"An effective blood test would present those diagnosed and their families with an opportunity to prepare for the impact of this devastating illness and make crucial decisions about their future."