COULD THIS PILL SAVE YOU FROM ALZHEIMER’S?
A SIMPLE saliva test at 55 and then daily anti-inflammatory pills could stop the onset of Alzheimer’s, scientists claim.
Those considered most at risk would be screened for toxic levels of a rogue protein, Abeta 42, which causes memory loss and confusion in sufferers.
And researchers say individuals who test positive should start taking a daily dose of anti-inflammatory pills, such as ibuprofen, which cost on average just 2p each, to help to prevent dementia.
In research published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease yesterday, Canadian scientists suggest that just one pill a day could be enough to significantly cut the chances of being struck down.
Lead researcher Dr Patrick McGeer, of Aurin Biotech in Vancouver, said: “We now have a simple test that can indicate if a person is fated to develop Alzheimer’s disease long before it begins to develop. Individuals can prevent that from happening through a simple solution that requires no prescription or visit to a doctor.
“Knowing the prevalence of clinical Alzheimer’s commences at age 65, we recommend people get tested ten years before, at age 55.
“If they exhibit elevated Abeta 42 levels then, that is the time to begin taking daily ibuprofen to ward off the disease. This is a true breakthrough, since it points in a direction where Alzheimer’s can eventually be eliminated.”
In most people, production of Abeta 42 is almost exactly the same regardless of sex or age. But if it is two to three times higher than normal they are likely to be struck down. That is because it is a relatively insoluble material. Although it is made everywhere in the body, deposits occur only in the brain, causing inflammation.
By discovering the protein is present in all organs, Dr McGeer claims anti-inflammatory drugs can successfully fight the disease.
However, Dr Doug Brown, of Alzheimer’s Society, warned: “The researchers’ suggestion that taking a daily anti-inflammatory drug as soon as a positive result for dementia risk is shown by a saliva test is premature, based on the evidence at the moment.
“Long-term use of anti-inflammatories runs an increased risk of stomach ulcers and intestinal bleeding and can have harmful interactions with other medications like warfarin.
“We always recommend talking to your doctor before changing your medication.”