Smell test may help detect Alzheimer's

By CNN Staff

Los Angeles Non Surgical Nose Job 2 resized 600

(CNN) -- In the future, a test of your sense of smell may help doctors predict your risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to new research presented at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, this week.

In two separate studies, scientists found that people who were unable to identify certain odors were more likely to experience cognitive impairment. The researchers believe that brain cells crucial to a person's sense of smell are killed in the early stages of dementia.

Researchers say this information could help doctors create a smell test to detect Alzheimer's earlier. Early detection means early intervention and treatment to slow the progression of the disease. Doctors today can only diagnose Alzheimer's disease once it has caused significant brain damage.

"In the face of the growing worldwide Alzheimer's disease epidemic, there is a pressing need for simple, less invasive diagnostic tests that will identify the risk of Alzheimer's much earlier in the disease process," Heather Snyder, director of medical and scientific operations for the Alzheimer's Association, said in a statement.

More than 35 million people worldwide live with dementia today, according to a new report. By 2050, that number is expected tomore than triple to 115 million.

Source: cnn.com

Recent Posts

Celebrating the Heartbeat of Healthcare: A Tribute to Nurses
As the calendar turns towards May, a special week shines a spotlight on the very heart and soul of healthcare: our Nurses. National Nurses Week, celebrated each year from May 6th to May 12th, is not...
Read More
Beyond Bedside Manner: Cultivating True Empathy in Nursing Practice
In the whirlwind of healthcare settings, where minutes can feel like hours and emotions run high, it's easy to fall into the trap of equating politeness with genuine care. While saying "please" and...
Read More
Real Steps to Promote Diversity in Nurse Leadership
Diversity in Nursing leadership is essential for delivering equitable, culturally competent care and fostering innovation within healthcare systems. As the U.S. population becomes increasingly...
Read More

Subscribe to Email Our Newsletter

Education_Award_Square