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Alzheimer's Research & Therapy

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Open Access 01-10-2013 | Research

Would you want to know? Public attitudes on early diagnostic testing for Alzheimer's disease

Authors: Elizabeth M Wikler, Robert J Blendon, John M Benson

Published in: Alzheimer's Research & Therapy | Issue 5/2013

Abstract

Introduction

Research is underway to develop an early medical test for Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

To evaluate potential demand for such a test, we conducted a cross-sectional telephone survey of 2,678 randomly selected adults across the United States and four European countries.

Results

Most surveyed adults (67%) reported that they are "somewhat" or "very likely" to get an early medical test if one becomes available in the future. Interest was higher among those worried about developing AD, those with an immediate blood relative with AD, and those who have served as caregivers for AD patients. Older respondents and those living in Spain and Poland also exhibited greater interest in testing. Knowing AD is a fatal condition did not influence demand for testing, except among those with an immediate blood relative with the disease.

Conclusions

Potential demand for early medical testing for AD could be high. A predictive test could not only advance medical research, it could transform political and legal landscapes by creating a large constituency of asymptomatic, diagnosed adults.

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Title: Would you want to know? Public attitudes on early diagnostic testing for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Elizabeth M Wikler
Robert J Blendon
John M Benson
Publication date: 01-10-2013
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: Alzheimer's Research & Therapy / Issue 5/2013
Electronic ISSN: 1758-9193
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/alzrt206

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Would you want to know? Public attitudes on early diagnostic testing for Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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