Understanding Alzheimer's Disease: The Role of Early Detection

Alzheimer's disease is not just a normal part of aging. It is a progressive condition that leads to severe memory loss and is the most common cause of dementia among the elderly. The disease progresses slowly, starting with mild symptoms that gradually worsen over time. Alzheimer's results from the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain. These harmful changes lead to the death of brain cells and the shrinkage of brain matter.

Prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease in Indonesia

According to the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, approximately 27.9% of Indonesians experience dementia, which equates to more than 4.2 million people. The Alzheimer's Association states that, by 2021, Alzheimer's disease became the fifth leading cause of death among individuals aged 65 and older. Furthermore, the Dementia Statistics data projects that the number of people over 65 with dementia in Indonesia may reach 1.6 million by 2050.

Causes of Alzheimer's Disease

The exact causes of Alzheimer's disease remain elusive. It is likely a combination of various factors rather than a single cause. These factors interact differently in each individual. They include:

• Genetic Factors: Certain genes can increase the risk.

• Family History: A family history of the disease can contribute to risk.

• Environmental Factors: Various environmental influences may play a role.

• Lifestyle Choices: Daily habits and lifestyle can also affect susceptibility.

  
  

Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease primarily manifests as memory impairment but involves more than just forgetfulness. It can lead to significant changes in thinking and behavior. Someone with Alzheimer's may show one or more of the following symptoms:

• Short-term memory loss: Forgetting appointments, repeatedly asking the same questions, or failing to remember new events can deeply affect daily activities.

• Difficulty with finances: Paying bills or understanding numbers may become confusing.

• Challenges in completing routine tasks: This can happen at home, work, or during leisure activities.

• Poor judgment: Making unwise or careless decisions may become common.

• Frequent misplacement of items: Misplacing items and not recalling steps to find them can lead to frustration.

• Confusion about time and place: Losing track of the day or becoming disoriented in familiar surroundings is typical.

• Changes in mood or personality: Increased suspicion, anxiety, confusion, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities may occur.

  
  

The Importance of Early Detection

Many individuals only recognize the symptoms of Alzheimer's when it has reached a moderate or severe stage. Early-stage symptoms can be mild and vague, often mistaken for a normal part of aging. However, early detection is crucial. It allows for better prevention strategies, medical interventions, and care planning. Maintaining quality of life for both patients and families becomes more achievable with early diagnosis. K-Lab now provides specialized tests to detect Alzheimer's risk early, ensuring better outcomes before symptoms worsen.

Alzheimer Prediction Test: Innovative Test for Early Detection of Alzheimer's

The Alzheimer Prediction Test is a groundbreaking blood test. It predicts the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in earlier stages. It detects beta-amyloid (Aβ), a crucial biomarker linked to amyloid plaque formation, a major contributor to nerve damage in Alzheimer's. This test employs immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to accurately measure the Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio. A decreased ratio can indicate an increased risk of plaque buildup in the brain, occurring before clinical symptoms manifest.

Benefits of the Alzheimer Prediction Test

This test offers several advantages over other diagnostic methods:

• Non-invasive procedure: The test requires only a venous blood sample. Unlike CSF analysis, which necessitates a lumbar puncture, this blood test is safer and more comfortable.

• Cost-effective: It is more economical than PET scans, which can be quite expensive and only available in specialized facilities.

• Accessibility: The test is convenient, making it suitable for screening in both primary care settings and clinical laboratories.

  
  

Beta Amyloid 42 as an Alzheimer's Biomarker

Aβ42 serves as a critical biomarker for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. This has been validated by both the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer's Association. Aβ42 is more prone to accumulation and plaque formation in the brain, making it a significant indicator of Alzheimer's. In contrast, Aβ40 is produced in larger quantities but is more stable. Measuring the ratio of Aβ42 to Aβ40 enhances the accuracy of Alzheimer's detection.

Who Should Consider This Examination?

Several groups should strongly consider undergoing the Alzheimer Prediction Test:

• Individuals aged 50-65: This age group is entering middle age, when Alzheimer's disease risk begins to increase. Early screening can be instrumental in timely detection.

• Those with a family history: If a close family member—like a parent or sibling—has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's, the risk of developing the disease rises, warranting earlier monitoring.

• Adults showing cognitive decline: Those experiencing symptoms indicative of mild cognitive impairment should be screened to determine the cause and potential treatment options.

  
  

If you need more information about this examination, please consult our doctors at K-Lab Medical Center. You can also contact our clinic via WhatsApp at 0813-8136-7915.

Source:

• Mayo Clinic - Alzheimer's disease

• Kemkes.go.id - Mengenal demensia alzheimer pada lansia serta tips merawat demensia Alzheimer

• Quest Diagnostics - Dementia: Biomarkers for Differential Diagnosis and Alzheimer's Disease Assessment

• CDC.gov – Alzheimer disease and dementia