Alzheimer’s research has come a long way in recent years. Blood tests to identify an abnormal protein called ptau217 can mean diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease before symptoms like memory loss show up.

Early intervention is key, says Dr. Rany Aburashed, a neurologist and CEO of Neurogen Biomarking.

“The whole game now is determining as early as possible if you have these plaques developing in the brain. The earlier we know, before the symptoms are significant, the more we can interact and actually change the disease itself.”

The blood tests identify sticky amyloid plaques and tangled fibers, which are the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

Diagnosing Alzheimer’s based on biology instead of symptoms means early interventions could reduce progression or severity of Alzheimer’s symptoms later in life.

“Just because you have a genetic predisposition, it does not mean you’re going to progress to dementia […] but you can only change that if you’re in front of it,” says Dr. Aburashed.

Some people have genetic predispositions, and lifestyle factors in 40’s, 50’s and 60’s can trigger the disease, especially drinking alcohol and smoking, adds Dr. Aburashed.

The FDA approved several new tests for Alzheimer’s diagnosis this year.

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The final medical decisions in a person’s life are among the most difficult anyone can make. They can include how to proceed with treatment for someone with a terminal illness, or to cease treatment all together. When that person is unconscious or unable to make that decision themselves, family, or next of kin, are often the ones who decide.

But, in practice, carrying out the wishes of a loved one is not as simple as it seems. 

Without having the necessary paperwork already completed, a person needs to gain legal guardianship before they can make medical decisions on their loved ones’ behalf. That process is complicated and can waste precious, fleeting moments on bureaucracy.

State Rep. Jamie Thompson (R-Brownstown) is co-sponsoring a bipartisan bill along with Angela Witwer (D-Delta Township) to close the medical decision-making gap in Michigan.

Rep. Thompson joined the Metro to discuss the details of the bill, and her personal experience which highlights Michigan’s need for a next-of-kin law in the state.

Guest:

• State Rep. Jamie Thompson represents Michigan’s 28th House District and serves as Vice Chair of the House Health Policy Committee.

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