HKUST develops early Alzheimer's detection test: Free cognitive assessments for seniors plus cash vouchers

Although dementia is difficult to reverse, earlier detection allows for earlier treatment to slow its progression. The Hong Kong Neurodegenerative Disease Center established by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has previously developed an innovative early Alzheimer's disease detection technology that can identify early risks through a blood test.

The center is collaborating with Tung Wah College to implement a 5-year community project. Elderly participants in the project will not only receive free cognitive assessments and health checkups to identify potential hidden risks early but will also receive cash voucher subsidies. Check out the participation conditions and registration methods now!

This "4-Stage NeuroCare Community Project" combines cognitive health assessments, blood tests, and medical clinical diagnoses, aiming to identify Alzheimer's disease earlier within the community. This innovative blood test can predict the risk of "Mild Cognitive Impairment progressing to Alzheimer's Disease (MCI-AD)" and "Dementia progressing to Alzheimer's Disease (Dementia-AD)." The data helps monitor patient progression and identify potential modifiable factors for Alzheimer's, ultimately promoting healthy aging and independent living for seniors.

Early Alzheimer's Detection –  Participation Conditions

• The recruitment target is Hong Kong underprivileged seniors aged between 60 and 75 years old who live at home.

Early Alzheimer's Detection –  Project Content

• Stage 1: Preliminary Screening
  • Interested participants register basic personal information and undergo a 5-minute cognitive health assessment screening. Target recruitment: 6,000 people. A $20 cash voucher is given upon registration.
• Stage 2: Medical Clinical Diagnosis
  • 2,500 participants will be selected from the first stage based on assessment. They must sign an informed consent form, register personal information and anthropometric data, and undergo a cognitive health assessment and medical consultation.
• Stage 3: Blood Test
  • 750 participants will be further screened from the second stage. Blood samples will be collected for blood testing. Based on the results, they will be classified into 3 grades according to the severity of their Alzheimer's pathology.
• Stage 4: Brain Scan
  • 350 participants will be selected from the third stage. After 3 years, the stage 3 tests will be repeated. Data will be collected through imaging examinations such as PET-CT and MR brain scans to reassess their Alzheimer's severity grade.

Early Alzheimer's Detection – Registration Method

Interested individuals can register through District Elderly Community Centers. Seniors deemed suitable after assessment can participate in this study.