Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) have identified a blood test that may help detect Alzheimer’s disease risk years before symptoms appear. The study found that certain Alzheimer-related proteins, specifically amyloid and tau, correlate with subtle cognitive differences in middle-aged adults without dementia. In their analysis of 1,350 adults aged 53 to 69, 6% exhibited high levels of these proteins, which were associated with slower responses to information and difficulties in planning and organizing tasks. Follow-up assessments indicated that these individuals experienced a more rapid decline in memory and processing speed over five years. While this blood test could provide a quicker and more affordable diagnostic method compared to MRI scans, experts emphasize that it is not yet suitable for widespread screening. They warn against misinterpretation of the results, as the presence of these proteins does not equate to a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. Early detection remains crucial, as addressing risk factors such as physical inactivity and poor heart health could potentially delay or prevent up to 40% of dementia cases.