INNOVATIONS in pharmacy

Older adult perception of preclinical Alzheimer’s disease screening and treatment

James Hoehns

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1089-4426

Bryan Kendall

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

https://orcid.org/0009-0000-2663-152X

Kayla Kinney

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

Deeya Karkera

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

Eric Macak

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

Sejin Kim

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

Matthew Witry

University of Iowa College of Pharmacy

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8381-7224

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/iip.v17i1.6958

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, attitude, prevention, treatment, route of administration

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Abstract

Introduction: Preclinical Alzheimer’s disease (AD) accounts for more than 80% of patients on the AD continuum.

Objective: The objective of this study is to query patient concerns towards their risk of developing preclinical Alzheimer’s disease and assess patient beliefs and preferences towards screening and taking potential preventive therapies.

Methods: An electronic survey assessed older adult perceptions towards their risk of developing preclinical AD, screening, and preventive therapies.

Results: One-hundred eight patients aged 55 to 80 years completed the survey during routine care at a family medicine clinic. Overall, 89% of participants would undergo blood screening for preclinical AD, despite 75% not believing they are at higher risk than peers. When asked about treatment, 83% showed interest in medication treatments, with 71% interested in intravenous (IV) formulations and 61% in subcutaneous formulations. These data show a slight preference for IV formulations. There were no significant differences between demographic groups and willingness to test or treat preclinical AD.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the need for patient-centered approaches to preclinical AD screening and treatment.