Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative condition affecting the brain and is the most common form of dementia in older adults. Dementia is currently a major healthcare issue in the UK, affecting approximately a million people. The progression of the disease varies between individuals and the early stages may be characterised by only minimal changes in memory and thinking. These changes could remain undetected as the symptoms may be mistakenly regarded as normal age-related forgetfulness. However, dementia is not part of the normal ageing process.
The underlying biological disease process of Alzheimer's is now known to start at least 20 years prior to patients showing any symptoms. A protein called amyloid starts to deposit in the brain and forms clumps referred to as 'plaques'. Another protein called tau collects inside brain cells and forms structures called 'tangles'. These biological changes can disrupt the normal functioning of brain cells and ultimately destroy them, leading to a reduction in brain volume and ability.
The aim of the BEAD-PC study is to assess whether a specific blood test in primary care can help diagnose Alzheimer's disease at an early stage.