In a groundbreaking study, Japanese researchers from Keio University and Saiseikai Yokohamashi Tobu Hospital have developed a technique to identify individuals who may have Alzheimer’s disease by asking simple questions and observing their behavior. This method, known as the “head-turning sign (HTS),” has the potential to revolutionize early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s.
The research, published in the medical journal Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy on November 21, highlights how the HTS behavior, where patients turn their heads towards caregivers for assistance when asked a set of basic questions, is commonly observed in people with dementia. By identifying this specific behavior, doctors can predict the presence of Alzheimer’s disease.
To test the effectiveness of their method, the team led by Keio University professor Daisuke Ito conducted an experiment involving 155 participants, including both dementia patients and healthy individuals. The participants were asked simple questions about their daily experiences and interests while their responses and behaviors were carefully observed.
The results were astounding. It was found that 83% of individuals who answered “no” or provided incorrect responses to questions such as “Are you currently experiencing any difficulties?” and “Have any news stories caught your attention in the past three months?” tested positive for Alzheimer’s disease in follow-up exams. Moreover, those who gave specific answers when asked about things they enjoy also exhibited a higher likelihood of having Alzheimer’s.
According to Professor Ito, this method is particularly effective because many Alzheimer’s patients try to conceal their illness by appearing healthy. These patients tend to provide specific answers about activities they enjoy rather than admitting difficulties or challenges they may be facing. On the other hand, individuals who answer “no” to all three questions are more likely to have dementia that is not related to Alzheimer’s.
Furthermore, the study revealed that 87% of individuals who sought help from family members or displayed HTS gestures also tested positive for Alzheimer’s. This suggests that observing both responses and behavior can accurately identify individuals at a higher risk for the disease.
The implications of this research are significant. The method developed by the Japanese researchers has the potential to efficiently screen patients with dementia and mild cognitive impairment who are eligible for Alzheimer’s treatment. Early detection is crucial in combating the progression of the disease, as it allows for timely intervention and management.
Alzheimer’s disease is believed to develop when abnormal proteins, such as amyloids, accumulate in the brain, causing damage to nerve cells and impairing their function. The lecanemab drug, approved by Japan’s health ministry in September last year, specifically targets these proteins and is designed to treat patients with early Alzheimer’s dementia and mild cognitive impairment. This highlights the increasing importance of early detection in providing effective treatment options.
Looking ahead, the prevalence of dementia in Japan is expected to rise significantly. By 2025, it is estimated that more than 6.75 million people aged 65 and older, accounting for over 20% of Japan’s elderly population, will be living with dementia. With an average of three caregivers needed per dementia patient, it is predicted that more than 10 million people will be involved in caregiving duties in the future.
In light of these projections, the development of innovative diagnostic techniques like the HTS method is critical in addressing the growing healthcare needs of an aging population. The work done by Japanese researchers not only offers hope for early detection and treatment but also underscores the importance of continued research efforts to combat Alzheimer’s disease.