Since Alzheimer's disease affects over 7 million people in the U.S., potentially doubling to 14 million by 2050, earlier detection could make a dent in disease progression.

The test has a complicated name: The Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio. But the goal of the test, created by Fujirebio Diagnostics, is simple: Early detection of beta-amyloid plaques linked to the neurocognitive disease in adults 55 and older who are exhibiting signs and symptoms of the disorder.

The Lumipulse blood test identifies the presence of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease that impairs normal brain function.