Do you want to know your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease? On Monday, Quest Diagnostics launched the AD-Detect Test to offer a direct-to-consumer blood test to detect abnormal levels of the beta-amyloid protein, giving patients a way to proactively assess and plan for their future.
AD-Detect has made history as the first direct-to-consumer blood-based biomarker test for Alzheimer’s disease! With this cutting edge test, consumers can now receive a better understanding of their own risk factors, but it is important to note that only a healthcare professional can provide an actual diagnosis. Quest has revolutionized the Alzheimer’s disease space, offering a more accessible approach to proactively monitor for the development of the disease.
Considering Alzheimer’s disease as a potential underlying cause for mild cognitive impairment or dementia should be taken into account in light of an individual’s medical and family history, physicals, nutrition status, neurological and neuropsychological tests, and imaging results. To properly evaluate the risk, a holistic approach should be taken that looks at all aspects of an individual’s health. Taking this comprehensive assessment can give a better indication of the likelihood of Alzheimer’s disease being the cause of any cognitive impairment.
AD-Detect is revolutionizing the way Alzheimer’s risk is assessed. By measuring two types of beta-amyloid biomarkers in the blood, the beta-amyloid 42/40 ratio is calculated to determine a patient’s Alzheimer’s risk. Typically, the lower the ratio, the greater the risk of developing the disease. With this groundbreaking technology, AD-Detect is making it easier than ever to identify early Alzheimer’s symptoms and get an accurate assessment of a patient’s risk.
AD-Detect has been made available for an incredible $399, with an additional accompanying doctor service fee of just $13. For those who have a family history of Alzheimer’s, are over 65 years old or have previously experienced a head or brain injury, AD-Detect offers a safe and reliable process conducted by a world-renowned doctor network. Additionally, licensed physicians are also available to support you with any question or concern you may have about the results.
The biopharma industry is amidst a major shift to tackle Alzheimer’s disease as Biogen and Eisai received the FDA’s accelerated approval for Leqembi (lecanemab), a therapeutic antibody designed to target beta-amyloid plaques, in January 2023. As the industry turns its attention to treatment and prevention, AD-Detect has launched an exciting tool to empower individuals to take charge of early diagnosis and management.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted full approval for Leqembi, the first-ever antibody-based therapy to be approved for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. The unanimous decision came after an advisory committee met in June and voted in favor of the medicine. This marks a major milestone in the history of Alzheimer’s treatment, potentially opening the door for further new treatments in the future.
After gaining full approval, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services opened its coverage for Leqembi to those people not enrolled in clinical trials, providing reimbursement for those suffering from mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer’s dementia with evidence of dangerous beta-amyloid deposits in the brain. With this advancement in diagnosis and treatment, Leqembi has remarkably revolutionized the way the medical industry takes care of its patients.
CMS is taking steps to broaden its coverage of PET scans for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease; a test designed to detect the amyloid plaques present in the brain. This is a major breakthrough for helping to diagnose the disease quickly and easily, offering new hope to those affected.