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O'Brien K, Coykendall C, Kleid M, Harkins K, Chin N, Clapp JT, Karlawish J. Determinants of Plasma Alzheimer's Disease Biomarker Use by Primary Care Providers and Dementia Specialists. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:1713-1720. [PMID: 38169023 PMCID: PMC11255148 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08583-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficiencies of plasma Alzheimer's disease (AD) biomarkers could facilitate early AD diagnosis. Unfortunately, limited knowledge exists about whether and how they would be used by clinicians. OBJECTIVE To identify and compare determinants of plasma AD biomarker use reported by primary care providers and dementia specialists. DESIGN Semi-structured interviews with clinicians organized using Rogers' Diffusion of Innovations theory and analyzed using an iterative coding approach. PARTICIPANTS The subjects were internal and family medicine, neurology, and geriatrics providers with varying degrees of expertise in dementia diagnosis and care. MAIN MEASURES Factors influencing a clinician's decision to use or not use plasma AD biomarkers in clinical practice. KEY RESULTS We interviewed 30 clinicians (16 family or internal medicine providers, 8 geriatricians, and 6 neurologists). Fifteen were dementia specialists. Hesitance to use plasma AD biomarkers was due to perceived lack of effective treatments for AD, limited access to supports, and stigma. Plasma AD biomarkers would be more readily adopted by clinicians with dementia expertise. CONCLUSIONS Several factors will influence clinical use of plasma AD biomarkers. Some of them may inform the design of interventions to promote the effective and appropriate clinical translation of these tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyra O'Brien
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA. kyra.o'
| | - Cameron Coykendall
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Melanie Kleid
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kristin Harkins
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nathaniel Chin
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Justin T Clapp
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jason Karlawish
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Flaherty R, Sui YV, Masurkar AV, Betensky RA, Rusinek H, Lazar M. Diffusion imaging markers of accelerated aging of the lower cingulum in subjective cognitive decline. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1360273. [PMID: 38784911 PMCID: PMC11111894 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1360273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Alzheimer's Disease (AD) typically starts in the medial temporal lobe, then develops into a neurodegenerative cascade which spreads to other brain regions. People with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) are more likely to develop dementia, especially in the presence of amyloid pathology. Thus, we were interested in the white matter microstructure of the medial temporal lobe in SCD, specifically the lower cingulum bundle that leads into the hippocampus. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) has been shown to differentiate SCD participants who will progress to mild cognitive impairment from those who will not. However, the biology underlying these DTI metrics is unclear, and results in the medial temporal lobe have been inconsistent. Methods To better characterize the microstructure of this region, we applied DTI to cognitively normal participants in the Cam-CAN database over the age of 55 with cognitive testing and diffusion MRI available (N = 325, 127 SCD). Diffusion MRI was processed to generate regional and voxel-wise diffusion tensor values in bilateral lower cingulum white matter, while T1-weighted MRI was processed to generate regional volume and cortical thickness in the medial temporal lobe white matter, entorhinal cortex, temporal pole, and hippocampus. Results SCD participants had thinner cortex in bilateral entorhinal cortex and right temporal pole. No between-group differences were noted for any of the microstructural metrics of the lower cingulum. However, correlations with delayed story recall were significant for all diffusion microstructure metrics in the right lower cingulum in SCD, but not in controls, with a significant interaction effect. Additionally, the SCD group showed an accelerated aging effect in bilateral lower cingulum with MD, AxD, and RD. Discussion The diffusion profiles observed in both interaction effects are suggestive of a mixed neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative pathology. Left entorhinal cortical thinning correlated with decreased FA and increased RD, suggestive of demyelination. However, right entorhinal cortical thinning also correlated with increased AxD, suggestive of a mixed pathology. This may reflect combined pathologies implicated in early AD. DTI was more sensitive than cortical thickness to the associations between SCD, memory, and age. The combined effects of mixed pathology may increase the sensitivity of DTI metrics to variations with age and cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryn Flaherty
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Vilcek Institute of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Yu Veronica Sui
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Arjun V. Masurkar
- Department of Neurology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Neuroscience Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Rebecca A. Betensky
- Department of Biostatistics, New York University School of Global Public Health, New York, NY, United States
| | - Henry Rusinek
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Mariana Lazar
- Center for Advanced Imaging Innovation and Research, Department of Radiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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Alsalem ZA, Alghathber NM, Alowain FS, Alqahtani MS, Alharbi NG. Dementia Knowledge Among Primary Healthcare Physicians in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2024; 16:e61112. [PMID: 38800780 PMCID: PMC11128245 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dementia poses a significant healthcare challenge globally, and healthcare providers must have adequate knowledge about its diagnosis, management, and support services. By assessing the knowledge level of primary care physicians in Riyadh, we can identify potential gaps and areas for improvement in dementia care, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life. This study holds promise in shedding light on the current state of dementia knowledge among primary healthcare physicians in Riyadh and offering insights into strategies to enhance dementia care in this region. METHODS This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted from the first of June 2023 to the end of December 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A validated questionnaire was used to assess physicians' knowledge, attitude, and practice toward dementia. RESULTS A total of 151 physicians completed the questionnaires. The majority were male (55%), below 30 years of age (88.1%), and family medicine residents (84.8%). Most (74.8%) recognized old age as the most significant risk factor; an overwhelming majority of participants (98.7%) could not identify the minimum course of treatment to judge a medication's effectiveness. The average score of correct responses (7.74 ∓ 4.11) was equivalent to 38.7%. Furthermore, the average correct responses were significantly different among the different job levels of the participants. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study highlight a lack of knowledge among primary care physicians regarding dementia, emphasizing the crucial importance of physician education in this area. Additionally, the results strongly indicate the need for emphasis on dementia education within the undergraduate medical curriculum, family medicine curriculum, and physician training programs. By addressing these educational gaps, we can better equip physicians to provide optimal care and support for individuals with dementia, ultimately improving patient care and quality of life.
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Reiss AB, Pinkhasov A. Special Issue "Commemorative Issue Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America: Understanding and Treating Alzheimer's Disease". MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2024; 60:712. [PMID: 38792895 PMCID: PMC11122752 DOI: 10.3390/medicina60050712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in older persons [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison B. Reiss
- Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY 11501, USA
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Trinh M, Shahbaba R, Stark C, Ren Y. Alzheimer's disease detection using data fusion with a deep supervised encoder. FRONTIERS IN DEMENTIA 2024; 3:1332928. [PMID: 39055313 PMCID: PMC11271260 DOI: 10.3389/frdem.2024.1332928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is affecting a growing number of individuals. As a result, there is a pressing need for accurate and early diagnosis methods. This study aims to achieve this goal by developing an optimal data analysis strategy to enhance computational diagnosis. Although various modalities of AD diagnostic data are collected, past research on computational methods of AD diagnosis has mainly focused on using single-modal inputs. We hypothesize that integrating, or "fusing," various data modalities as inputs to prediction models could enhance diagnostic accuracy by offering a more comprehensive view of an individual's health profile. However, a potential challenge arises as this fusion of multiple modalities may result in significantly higher dimensional data. We hypothesize that employing suitable dimensionality reduction methods across heterogeneous modalities would not only help diagnosis models extract latent information but also enhance accuracy. Therefore, it is imperative to identify optimal strategies for both data fusion and dimensionality reduction. In this paper, we have conducted a comprehensive comparison of over 80 statistical machine learning methods, considering various classifiers, dimensionality reduction techniques, and data fusion strategies to assess our hypotheses. Specifically, we have explored three primary strategies: (1) Simple data fusion, which involves straightforward concatenation (fusion) of datasets before inputting them into a classifier; (2) Early data fusion, in which datasets are concatenated first, and then a dimensionality reduction technique is applied before feeding the resulting data into a classifier; and (3) Intermediate data fusion, in which dimensionality reduction methods are applied individually to each dataset before concatenating them to construct a classifier. For dimensionality reduction, we have explored several commonly-used techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA), autoencoder (AE), and LASSO. Additionally, we have implemented a new dimensionality-reduction method called the supervised encoder (SE), which involves slight modifications to standard deep neural networks. Our results show that SE substantially improves prediction accuracy compared to PCA, AE, and LASSO, especially in combination with intermediate fusion for multiclass diagnosis prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh Trinh
- Department of Computer Science, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | | | - Craig Stark
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Yueqi Ren
- Mathematical, Computational and Systems Biology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
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Kim S, Yoon H, Jang Y. Access to Primary Healthcare and Discussion of Memory Loss with a Healthcare Provider in Adults with Subjective Cognitive Decline: Does Race/Ethnicity Matter? Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:955. [PMID: 37998701 PMCID: PMC10669110 DOI: 10.3390/bs13110955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Because subjective cognitive decline (SCD) manifests before the clinical and irreversible onset of dementia, efforts to address SCD are imperative for the early identification and prevention of dementia. For people who actually experience SCD, having a usual source of care may be an important catalyst for addressing memory issues. This study investigates the relationship between having a usual source of care and the discussion of SCD with healthcare providers, while taking into account racial and ethnic differences. The pooled 2019-2020 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) from 47 states in the U.S. was used. The sample included 7900 individuals aged 50 and older who reported significant cognitive decline. Using logistic regression with state-level clustering, we found that those with a usual source of healthcare were almost twice as more likely to discuss memory loss with a healthcare provider. In order to test for the multiplicative effects, we included an interaction term between each race category and having a primary care provider (PCP). There was a significant interaction effect between Hispanic ethnicity and having a PCP (OR = 0.25, p < 0.05). While non-Hispanic respondents who had a PCP had a higher probability of discussing memory issues with a healthcare provider (42% vs. 25%), Hispanic respondents with a PCP were less likely to discuss their memory loss with a healthcare provider (36% vs. 49%). The study adds to the growing literature on the vital role of the primary care service in provision of service to those with cognitive decline, while revealing ethnic disparity in memory-loss-related communication with healthcare providers in a primary care setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seoyoun Kim
- Department of Sociology, Texas State University, San Marcos, TX 78666, USA;
| | - Hyunwoo Yoon
- Department of Social Welfare, Institute of Social Welfare, Kongju National University, Gongju-si 32588, Republic of Korea
| | - Yuri Jang
- Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA;
- Department of Social Welfare, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07985, Republic of Korea
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Waters L, Sohmer D, Goldman RE, Bluestein D, Burnham K, Clark PG, Slattum PW, Helm F, Marks J. Beyond knowledge and confidence: a mixed methods evaluation of a Project ECHO course on dementia for primary care. GERONTOLOGY & GERIATRICS EDUCATION 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37929922 DOI: 10.1080/02701960.2023.2278097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Primary care clinicians have an important role in the management of dementia and have expressed interest in continuing education. The authors describe a model they used for providing dementia education in primary care, Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes), and an overview of its major features. A partnership including academic institutions and a national healthcare association is then outlined, including the unique features of the ECHO model developed through this partnership. A mixed-methods methodology was used for programmatic evaluation. This use of mixed methods adds vital new knowledge and learner perspectives that are key to planning subsequent ECHO courses related to dementia and primary care. The discussion includes an exploration of the significance of these findings for understanding the motivations of primary care providers for participation in the educational program, as well as the limitations of the current study. A final section explores the next steps in the continued development of the model and its implications for geriatrics education in dementia care, especially the supportive role that ECHO courses can play in meeting the challenges of dementia care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leland Waters
- Virginia Center on Aging, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Dana Sohmer
- Alzheimer's Association, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Roberta E Goldman
- Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Daniel Bluestein
- Virginia Center on Aging, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Phillip G Clark
- Rhode Island Geriatric Education Center, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, USA
| | - Patricia W Slattum
- Virginia Center on Aging, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Faith Helm
- Rhode Island Geriatric Education Center, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, USA
| | - Jane Marks
- Johns Hopkins Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Johns Hopkins University, Maryland, Baltimore, USA
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Kallmyer BA, Bass D, Baumgart M, Callahan CM, Dulaney S, Evertson LC, Fazio S, Judge KS, Samus Q. Dementia care navigation: Building toward a common definition, key principles, and outcomes. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2023; 9:e12408. [PMID: 37533688 PMCID: PMC10392594 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As the complexity of medical treatments and patient care systems have increased, the concept of patient navigation is growing in both popularity and breadth of application. Patient navigators are trained personnel whose role is not to provide clinical care, but to partner with patients to help them identify their needs and goals and then overcome modifiable patient-, provider-, and systems-level barriers. Due to its high incidence, duration, and medical-social complexity, dementia is an ideal candidate for a patient-centric health care delivery model such as care navigation. METHODS The Alzheimer's Association formed an expert workgroup of researchers in the field of dementia care navigation to identify evidence-based guidelines. RESULTS Recognizing the unique and challenging needs of persons living with dementia and their care partners, several U.S. dementia care navigation programs have been developed and assessed in recent years. Collectively these programs demonstrate that persons living with dementia and their care partners benefit from dementia care navigation. Improved care system outcomes for the person living with dementia include reduced emergency department visits, lower hospital readmissions, fewer days hospitalized, and shorter delays in long-term care placement. Well-being is also increased, as there is decreased depression, illness, strain, embarrassment, and behavioral symptoms and increased self-reported quality of life. For care partners, dementia navigation resulted in decreased depression, burden, and unmet needs. DISCUSSION This article presents principles of dementia care navigation to inform existing and emerging dementia care navigation programs. Highlights Several U.S. dementia care navigation programs have demonstrated outcomes for persons living with dementia, care partners, and health systems.The Alzheimer's Association formed an expert workgroup of researchers in the field of dementia care navigation to create a shared definition and identify evidence-based guidelines or principles.These outlined principles of dementia care navigation can inform existing and emerging dementia care navigation programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Bass
- Benjamin Rose Institute on AgingClevelandOhioUSA
| | | | | | - Sarah Dulaney
- UCSF Memory and Aging CenterSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Sam Fazio
- Alzheimer's AssociationChicagoIllinoisUSA
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Sunde AL, Alsnes IV, Aarsland D, Ashton NJ, Tovar‐Rios DA, De Santis G, Blennow K, Zetterberg H, Kjosavik SR. Preanalytical stability of plasma biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease pathology. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 15:e12439. [PMID: 37192842 PMCID: PMC10182363 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Plasma tests have demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for identifying Alzheimer's disease pathology. To facilitate the transition to clinical utility, we assessed whether plasma storage duration and temperature affect the biomarker concentrations. Methods Plasma samples from 13 participants were stored at +4°C and +18°C. Concentrations of six biomarkers were measured after 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 24 h by single molecule array assays. Results Phosphorylated tau 181 (p-tau181), phosphorylated tau 231 (p-tau231), neurofilament light (NfL), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) concentrations were unchanged both when stored at +4°C and +18°C. Amyloid-β 40 (Aβ40) and amyloid-β 42 (Aβ42) concentrations were stable for 24 h at +4°C but declined when stored at +18°C for longer than 6 h. This decline did not affect the Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio. Discussion Plasma samples can be stored for 24 h at +4°C or +18°C and result in valid assay results for p-tau181, p-tau231, Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio, GFAP, and NfL. HIGHLIGHTS Plasma samples were stored for 24 h at +4°C and +18°C, mimicking clinical practice.Concentrations for Alzheimer's disease biomarkers were measured at six time-points.p-tau181, p-tau231, NfL, and GFAP concentrations were unchanged during the experiment.Storage at +18°C affected Aβ40 and Aβ42 concentrations while storage at +4°C did not. The Aβ42/Aβ40 ratio was unaffected.These plasma tests seem suitable for use in general practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita L. Sunde
- Centre for Age‐Related Medicine (SESAM)Stavanger University HospitalStavangerNorway
- Department of Clinical MedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
| | | | - Dag Aarsland
- Centre for Age‐Related Medicine (SESAM)Stavanger University HospitalStavangerNorway
- Department of Old Age PsychiatryInstitute of PsychiatryPsychology and NeuroscienceKing's CollegeLondonUK
| | - Nicholas J. Ashton
- Centre for Age‐Related Medicine (SESAM)Stavanger University HospitalStavangerNorway
- Department of Psychiatry and NeurochemistryInstitute of Neuroscience & Physiologythe Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of GothenburgMölndalSweden
- King's College LondonInstitute of PsychiatryPsychology and NeuroscienceMaurice Wohl Institute Clinical Neuroscience Institute LondonLondonUK
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre for Mental Health & Biomedical Research Unit for Dementia at South London & Maudsley NHS FoundationLondonUK
| | - Diego A. Tovar‐Rios
- Centre for Age‐Related Medicine (SESAM)Stavanger University HospitalStavangerNorway
- Faculty of Health SciencesUniversity of StavangerStavangerNorway
- Grupo INFERIRFacultad de IngenieríaUniversidad del ValleSantiago de CaliValle del CaucaColombia
| | - Giovanni De Santis
- Department of Psychiatry and NeurochemistryInstitute of Neuroscience & Physiologythe Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of GothenburgMölndalSweden
| | - Kaj Blennow
- Department of Psychiatry and NeurochemistryInstitute of Neuroscience & Physiologythe Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of GothenburgMölndalSweden
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and NeurochemistryInstitute of Neuroscience & Physiologythe Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of GothenburgMölndalSweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry LaboratorySahlgrenska University HospitalMölndalSweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative DiseaseUCL Institute of NeurologyLondonUK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCLLondonUK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative DiseasesHong KongChina
| | - Svein R. Kjosavik
- The General Practice and Care Coordination Research GroupStavanger University HospitalStavangerNorway
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Power MC, Willens V, Prather C, Moghtaderi A, Chen Y, Gianattasio KZ, Grodstein F, Shah RC, James BD. Risks and Benefits of Clinical Diagnosis Around the Time of Dementia Onset. Gerontol Geriatr Med 2023; 9:23337214231213185. [PMID: 38026091 PMCID: PMC10666707 DOI: 10.1177/23337214231213185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Diagnostic delay in dementia is common in the U.S. Drivers of diagnostic delay are poorly understood, but appear related to misconceptions about dementia, stigma, concerns about autonomy, the nature of the diagnostic process, and provider-related factors. There is little quantitative evidence underlying cited risks and benefits of receiving a diagnosis around the time of dementia onset, including impacts on physical health, impacts on mental health, care partner interactions, costs of care, increased time for care planning, or earlier access to treatment. While various groups continue to push for reductions in diagnostic delay, realization of benefits and mitigation of harms will require new research on potential benefits and harms. Workforce and resource constraints, coupled with the expected growth in the number of persons living with dementia, may be a barrier to realization of potential benefits and mitigation of identified harms, which will require adequate access to providers, services, and supports.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yi Chen
- Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Raj C. Shah
- Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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Al-Taie A, Yilmaz ZK, Dahman H, Yardimci T. Insights into disease and pharmacotherapy knowledge of Alzheimer's disease among community pharmacists: a cross-sectional study. Curr Med Res Opin 2022; 38:2209-2217. [PMID: 36189738 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2022.2129802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the knowledge level and awareness of Alzheimer's disease, including knowledge about the disease, pharmacotherapy, provision of patient education and associated factors among community pharmacists across Turkey and Northern Cyprus. METHODS This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted among community pharmacists working in Turkey (Group A) and Northern Cyprus (Group B). Disease and pharmacotherapy knowledge of AD were assessed using AD Knowledge Scale (ADKS), and drug treatment (KADT) scale, respectively. RESULTS Both groups reported a moderate level of knowledge of AD, especially medically-oriented domains, with no significant difference regarding the mean ADKS domains (18.8 ± 2.8 vs. 18.9 ± 3.4; p = .98). Nevertheless, participants from both groups reported a good level of KADT knowledge about AD treatment (p = .03). Group A reported a statistically significant higher level of knowledge about drug interactions compared with Group B (54.6% vs. 45.8%; p = .01), and knowledge about proper information (79.6% vs. 31.8%; p = .02). There was a statistically significant KADT difference correlated with gender, those having a Master degree, more than 5 years of work experience, and those taking AD training courses. CONCLUSION There is still a lack of knowledge regarding AD reported by moderate ADKS score, especially in medically-oriented domains, which creates a barrier to early provision of care and preventing AD, noted with no difference among community pharmacists across Turkey and Northern Cyprus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmar Al-Taie
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zekiye K Yilmaz
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hasan Dahman
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Girne American University, Girne, Turkey
| | - Turay Yardimci
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Girne American University, Girne, Turkey
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Sehar U, Rawat P, Reddy AP, Kopel J, Reddy PH. Amyloid Beta in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12924. [PMID: 36361714 PMCID: PMC9655207 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects behavior, thinking, learning, and memory in elderly individuals. AD occurs in two forms, early onset familial and late-onset sporadic; genetic mutations in PS1, PS2, and APP genes cause early onset familial AD, and a combination of lifestyle, environment and genetic factors causes the late-onset sporadic form of the disease. However, accelerated disease progression is noticed in patients with familial AD. Disease-causing pathological changes are synaptic damage, and mitochondrial structural and functional changes, in addition to increased production and accumulation of phosphorylated tau (p-tau), and amyloid beta (Aβ) in the affected brain regions in AD patients. Aβ is a peptide derived from amyloid precursor protein (APP) by proteolytic cleavage of beta and gamma secretases. APP is a glycoprotein that plays a significant role in maintaining neuronal homeostasis like signaling, neuronal development, and intracellular transport. Aβ is reported to have both protective and toxic effects in neurons. The purpose of our article is to summarize recent developments of Aβ and its association with synapses, mitochondria, microglia, astrocytes, and its interaction with p-tau. Our article also covers the therapeutic strategies that reduce Aβ toxicities in disease progression and discusses the reasons for the failures of Aβ therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ujala Sehar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Priyanka Rawat
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - Arubala P. Reddy
- Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
| | - Jonathan Kopel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| | - P. Hemachandra Reddy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Nutritional Sciences Department, College of Human Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA
- Neurology, Departments of School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Public Health Department of Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
- Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, School Health Professions, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
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Reiss AB, de Levante Raphael D, Chin NA, Sinha V. The physician's Alzheimer's disease management guide: Early detection and diagnosis of cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease and related dementia. AIMS Public Health 2022; 9:661-689. [PMID: 36636148 PMCID: PMC9807411 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2022047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary care professionals play a critical role in the care of their patients. In clinical practice, early detection and diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer's disease and related dementia are often missed or delayed. Disclosure of diagnosis is not timely or not revealed. Though the methods that could improve early detection and diagnosis have remained the same over the decades with little change, they provide opportunities for early intervention, treatment and improvement in patient care. Emerging research suggests that though the disease process begins years prior to the clinical diagnosis, the healthcare system and health care professionals remain distant and reluctant to provide the service of annual cognitive assessment, which has been recommended by the Medicare program for older adults aged 65 years and older. Findings support that Alzheimer's disease and related cognitive impairments have gone under detected, underdiagnosed and undertreated. This article seeks to provide valuable and equitable information in the form of a clinician's guide for removing the barriers to early detection and diagnosis of cognitive impairments and offers an unprecedented opportunity to improve the clinical outcomes and care of older adults with various levels of cognitive decline, including mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and related dementias. This article provides information on understanding and addressing the challenges faced by health care professionals, including primary care clinicians; removing the barriers to cognitive assessments; educating this professional group on the importance of brain health, early detection, and diagnosis for their older adult patients; and providing these professionals with the ability to transfer their knowledge into more defined care planning. Until cognitive screening has been fully accepted and implemented for the optimal the care of older adults, health-related efforts should include the promotion and education of brain health, early detection, and diagnosis in the education of health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Donna de Levante Raphael
- National Memory Screening Program, Alzheimer's Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA
| | - Nathaniel A. Chin
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC), Madison, WI 53726
| | - Vivek Sinha
- Belleview Medical Partners, Alexandria, VA 22314 USA,* Correspondence: ; Tel: +19176888518; Fax: +16466381546
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