Eligibility for amyloid targeting therapies among primary care patients with cognitive symptoms.

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia and a growing healthcare challenge. Amyloid-targeting therapies (ATT) may slow progression, but implementation is limited by logistical and economic barriers. As primary care is the first contact for most patients with cognitive concerns, quantifying treatment eligibility in this setting is essential. The purpose of this study was to estimate the proportion of primary care patients presenting with cognitive symptoms who are eligible for ATT.

METHODS

This cohort study included patients presenting with cognitive symptoms in primary care across the region Skåne, in southern Sweden, recruited between January 2020 and April 2025. Stepwise exclusion criteria based on clinical diagnosis, comorbidities, and treatment contraindications were applied, in alignment with appropriate use recommendations for lecanemab and donanemab, respectively. Eligibility was further refined using CSF biomarkers (Aβ42/40 ratio), cognitive performance, and MRI findings.

RESULTS

In a full diagnostic work-up of 607 patients with sequential exclusions, 86 patients (14.2%) and 78 patients (12.8%) ultimately met the eligibility criteria for lecanemab and donanemab, respectively. Due to comorbidities, medication use, and age/BMI, around 1/3 of the original population was excluded. Most ineligible patients met more than one exclusion criterion. The eligible population was 63% female, mean age 77 years. Around 65% of the individuals had mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 35% mild dementia.

CONCLUSIONS

About 13-14% of primary care patients evaluated for cognitive complaints were eligible for ATT. Compared with clinical trials, the eligible population was older and consisted of more women. TRIAL REGISTRATION: BioFINDERPrimary Care study (NCT06120361, Registration date 2 November 2023 https//biofinder.se).