RESEARCH AND SCIENCE

According to a March 10, 2020 My Twin Tiers WETM NBC 18 article, a new blood testing technique, Simoa, could help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease even before symptoms become apparent. Current tests are expensive and invasive; and easy, early diagnosis and treatment would help to maintain quality of life for both patients and families. “The test could also differentiate Alzheimer’s from another group of rare neurodegenerative diseases. The results of the blood test were similar to a spinal fluid test and a PET brain scan for beta-amyloid protein.”

In a March 10, 2020 Being Patient article, researchers focused on the role of the TREM2 receptor in Alzheimer’s disease. Their belief is that TREM2 can increase the risk of developing AD by putting microglia into a dormant state, preventing the breakdown of amyloid plaque and dead brain cells, a major hallmark of Alzheimer’s. According to the article, “…We suspect that activation of the microglia could help to eliminate plaques and thus combat Alzheimer’s,” [lead researcher Christian] Haass said. “TREM2 seems to play an important role,” he continued. “The receptor apparently helps to switch the microglia from dormant to active mode.”  

MUST WATCH

A March 10, 2020 WMC Action News 5 broadcast segment laid-out how caregivers can best help people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias avoid contracting the contagious COVID-19 virus. As hand washing may not be a simple task for people with dementia, speaking in a soothing voice and playing music may provide assistance. Hand sanitizer can be a good substitute.

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

A March 11, 2020 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution article took a look at Alzheimer’s disease in Georgia and the nation, based on recent data from the new “2020 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures” annual report, showing prevalence, mortality, costs and impact on caregivers. The report found that the medical profession will not be prepared to handle the influx of cases expected in the next five years. According to the article, “Doctors are in a time crunch. You don’t have a long time to spend with a patient to completely address all issues."... Often times, dementia patients may be seen in an emergency room setting and may not be able to verbalize what’s wrong.” Also covered by Yahoo! Finance.