The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) announced on Monday that it will offer free early screening for Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment as part of its new "NeuroCare Community Project."
The five-year program aims to recruit 6,000 community-dwelling seniors aged 60 to 75 to facilitate early identification and intervention for neurodegenerative conditions, which is expected to benefit approximately 30,000 people, including caregivers.
Led and planned by HKUST, the initiative is a joint effort with Tung Wah College and over 10 social welfare organizations, which will conduct recruitment through more than 40 of their community and elderly centers.
The screening process will utilize a blood testing technology developed by HKUST and will be conducted in four stages. Participants will first undergo a cognitive assessment and a routine blood test.
Depending on individual results, they may then be scheduled for further examinations to identify early signs of Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment.
HKUST president Nancy Chu Ip Yuk-yu stated that the program extends the world's first multi-protein blood test from clinical settings to the community level.
She explained that this innovative technology enables earlier and minimally invasive detection of Alzheimer's, allowing affected families to plan care solutions and seek support early, which has the potential to change the trajectory of brain health.
By referring seniors in need to the healthcare system for timely diagnosis and treatment, the program is expected to enhance care for neurodegenerative diseases, promote the accessibility of advanced medical services, reduce caregiver stress, and alleviate anxiety related to cognitive impairment.
HKUST expressed confidence that the collaboration among researchers, clinicians, and community groups will build a stronger, sustainable care network for Hong Kong’s aging population.
Data gathered is also expected to drive future research advances and inform better prevention and management strategies for cognitive impairment.
