FDA approves first-ever Alzheimer's blood test

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A few days ago, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the first blood test to help detect early stages of Alzheimer's Disease.

The blood test detects plaques associated with the disease in the blood, making the procedure less intrusive and helping people gain a head start in Alzheimer's treatment.

Program Manager Maxine Vieyra with the Alzheimer's Association of South Texas says the test is a significant step in getting a faster diagnosis.

“It stops the progression significantly, meaning that it gives people an opportunity to have more time before the full progression of the disease," Vieyra said.

In the South Texas region, 15% of residents have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's.

Although no cure exists, several medications approved in 2023 and 2024 have benefited early diagnosed individuals.

"It's not a means of saying it's going to reverse it or fully stop it, but it does buy people time," Vieyra said.

The new blood test is for adults 55 and older who show signs and symptoms of the degenerative disease.

It can only be provided by a doctor, but Vieyra says the intention is to have the blood test become a greater part of overall medical care.

“The goal, ultimately, would be that that blood test will be available to everyone right part of your physical every year," Vieyra adds.

If you or anybody you know may be going through Alzheimer’s Disease, you can find assistance by calling the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 hotline at 1-800-272-3900.