The simple eye test that’s a “game-changer” in diagnosing Alzheimer’s
A simple eye test which takes just a couple of seconds is being hailed as a “game-changer” in the detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease in Australia.
Researchers in Western Australia have revealed it’s non-invasive, cheap and fast – and has the potential to save many lives.
The test is done in just a couple of seconds, in which a camera takes a photo of the retina at the back of your eye to check and detect for build-up of amyloids – proteins that can be a sign and indication of Alzheimer’s disease.
Professor Martins explained to 7News, “That’s what makes it so exciting, because while they have amyloid in their brain, at that stage the brain hasn’t been damaged, and that’s the best time to intervene.”
Sadly, in Australia, Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of death in women. For men, it’s the second leading cause of death.
Joy Woolhouse, a 76-year-old grandmother and Alzheimer’s study participant, said she is aware of the risks.
“I can’t recall things as quickly as I used to be able to, so yes, it is a worry,” she told 7News.
The eye test costs just $50 versus a brain scan to detect and diagnose Alzheimer’s, which costs around $3,000.
The low-cost of the eye test means patients can have the test done multiple times and their diagnosis monitored.
Professor Martins added, “If there is a particular regime that a patient might be doing to lower their risk, they could come back in six or 12 months and get a scan of the eye again to see if there is a reduction.”
For further information on the clinical trials, contact the Australian Alzheimer’s Research Foundation.