Blood test p-tau217 predicts Alzheimer's risk up to ten years
Researchers reported, citing an AP News story, that high levels of the blood protein p-tau217 predicted a 38% chance of cognitive impairment within five years and a 78% chance within ten years in older adults without symptoms. The New York Post echoed the same risk percentages in its coverage. A multinational analysis described in Neuroscience News added that the association held even after accounting for amyloid PET results and APOE4 genotype, indicating the biomarker’s independent predictive value.
ABC News reported that experts cautioned the test is not yet ready for routine clinical use despite the promising findings. Subsequent reports from Fox News and AOL. com reiterated the Harvard-led study’s conclusions about the elevated risk, reinforcing the potential of the blood test while noting its current limitations.
