Identify Patients at Risk of Cognitive Decline

This speaker presentation features Heather Sandison, ND, and Dr. Richard Pither discussing a new test that can help practitioners identify patients at risk of cognitive decline, specifically those at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The test uses genetic mapping to produce a polygenic risk score, categorizing individuals into risk groups. It is less invasive and expensive than other techniques and is readily available to everyone.

Cytox launched their test, “The Alzheimer’s Risk Test – powered by genoSCORE,” in North America in late 2021, led by their testing laboratory partner, Sampled – The Alzheimer’s Risk Test is a Polygenic Risk Scoring (PRS) test that provides a comprehensive assessment of genetic risk linked to late-onset Alzheimer’s disease and associated cognitive decline. Alzheimer’s disease is a highly complex disease with risk factors based on genetics, lifestyle, age, and environment, but up to 50% of the risk factors are modifiable and so can be addressed to reduce overall risk.

The Alzheimer’s Risk Test is offered by approved clinical practices and requires only a simple saliva sample; it uses a Polygenic Risk algorithm to predict the risk of individuals developing Alzheimer’s disease and optimize clinical management of those at the highest risk. While the test is not a diagnostic tool, it can provide individuals with valuable information to take proactive measures to mitigate their overall risk. This test is specifically designed to identify individuals at risk of Alzheimer’s disease and falls into two categories: symptomatic individuals and younger individuals with a family history of cognitive decline.

It is essential to seek professional clinical support before taking the test as genetic input, environmental factors, and comorbidities all contribute to overall Alzheimer’s risk.

Takeaways:

• A groundbreaking test can identify individuals at risk of Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline.
• The test is conducted through a genetic mapping exercise, producing a single number describing an individual’s genetic risk.
• The test is readily available to everyone and requires either a saliva collection kit or a blood sample, and it is less invasive and far less expensive than other techniques.
• While knowing one’s Alzheimer’s risk can be significant, it is essential to remember that genetic input, environmental factors, and comorbidities contribute to overall Alzheimer’s risk.
• Patients should discuss the test with their clinician to determine whether it suits them and seek professional clinical support before taking it. A proactive approach to managing lifestyle and environmental risks is crucial for everyone.