Patient views on blood-based biomarker tests for Alzheimer's disease in primary care.

INTRODUCTION

Blood-based biomarkers could offer accessible, cost-effective detection of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in primary care. This study examined patient attitudes toward AD biomarker testing.

METHODS

Crosssectional surveys were conducted with 572 adults from Chicago-area clinics. Participants received brief education on biomarker tests before completing the survey.

RESULTS

Most participants (83.8%) were unfamiliar with biomarker tests; 1.8% previously completed testing. After brief education, most (94.5%) supported offering tests to patients with memory complaints, and 85% were willing to complete testing if recommended by their clinician. Facilitators included tests informing clinical care, coverage by insurance, and education in advance. Barriers included cost and reliability concerns. Participants commonly expected they would experience emotional distress and motivation to improve brain health after a positive test.

DISCUSSION: Primary care patients educated about biomarker testing were generally willing to undergo testing and support its use. After a positive result, informational and psychological support may be needed.