Blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's: systemic shifts in diagnosis and access
Original framing: “[Comment] Blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease: from detection to decisions” — The Lancet
Scientific validation of blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's is robust, with studies showing high sensitivity and specificity. However, the clinical utility of these biomarkers remains under scrutiny, particularly regarding their impact on patient outcomes and healthcare systems.
The adoption of blood biomarkers for Alzheimer's represents a significant shift in diagnostic practice, but it must be contextualized within broader systemic forces.
While the scientific validation of these tools is strong, their clinical utility is shaped by power dynamics in healthcare, including corporate influence and access disparities. Integrating biomarker data with social, cultural, and environmental factors can lead to more equitable and effective care models. Indigenous and cross-cultural perspectives offer valuable insights into holistic brain health, while patient and caregiver voices are essential for ethical and meaningful diagnosis. Future pathways should prioritize not only technological innovation but also the social and ethical frameworks that ensure these innovations serve all people equitably.