Photo provided by Indiana News Service.

INDIANA — New research directed at earlier detection of Alzheimer’s disease has produced a more promising method for diagnosis.

It was unveiled last week at an international conference of experts who study and treat Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The blood test appears to be able to detect the disease earlier than traditional procedures. An early diagnosis means a boost in recruitment for clinical trials and fewer wait times for disease assessment.

Natalie Sutton, executive director of the Greater Indiana chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, said researchers are optimistic.

“This actually showed that the blood test was about 90% accurate in identifying Alzheimer’s in patients with cognitive symptoms,” Sutton pointed out. “They were being seen in primary care and at memory care clinics.”

In comparison, the study found primary care physicians were 63% accurate and specialists were 73% accurate in diagnosing the disease without the blood test. Sutton added more trials are needed on a larger and more diverse population to ensure the blood test’s accuracy. About 121,000 Hoosiers age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association said by age 45, the risk of developing the disease is about one in five for women and one in 10 for men. Sutton applauded the work of Indiana scientists and said more than 100 pieces of research from the Hoosier State were presented at the conference. One drug they have tested was found to have a significant effect on vital brain functions.

“One study tested liraglutide in people with mild Alzheimer’s dementia,” Sutton outlined. “The study showed that the drug reduced shrinking by nearly 50% in some of the parts of the brain that affect memory, learning, language and decision-making, when compared to a placebo.”

The website Medscape mentioned a study showing liraglutide was also found to help diabetics manage their weight loss while lowering their risk of heart and kidney disease. Almost 13,000 doctors and scientists attended the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Philadelphia.