Two recent developments are changing how neurology approaches Alzheimer’s disease: a blood test that can predict risk up to 10 years in advance, and progress in medications targeting one of its two main drivers. In a recent TV segment, I discussed both findings and what they mean for patients and families.
How Does the New Blood Test for Alzheimer’s Risk Work?
Alzheimer’s has two main components: beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein. This new test measures tau levels in the blood — specifically a form called p-tau217 — and the results of a recent study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) 2026 are notable.
In people with very high levels of this protein, the risk of developing cognitive impairment was approximately 34% at 5 years and 78% at 10 years. In those with only slightly elevated levels, the risk was lower: 15% at 5 years and 45% at 10 years. In other words, the higher the level, the greater and more imminent the risk.
Should We Get This Test Routinely Now?
Not yet. While the finding is significant, there’s currently no truly effective treatment to clear tau protein once it accumulates — so routine testing, the way we check cholesterol, wouldn’t change clinical management for most people yet.
Where it does have real value today is in research: it helps identify patients most likely to benefit from new medications in development, and select them for clinical trials more precisely.
Medications That Target Tau Protein
There are already approved medications that help clear amyloid plaques from the brain. What’s new is that several labs are developing drugs aimed specifically at tau protein, with promising but still mixed early results — some have shown reduced cognitive decline in early-stage Alzheimer’s, though none is yet a cure or fully approved.
This combined approach — targeting both amyloid and tau — is changing the treatment outlook for a disease that, until recently, had no options that altered its course.
What You Can Control Today
The most important risk factor for Alzheimer’s remains age, which we can’t change. But there’s a lot that is within our control — as I explained in my article on brain health habits, a significant portion of dementia risk is modifiable. In the interview, I specifically mentioned:
- Exercising regularly
- Moderating refined carbohydrate intake
- Properly managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes
- Sleeping well
- Staying mentally active by learning new things
- Cultivating meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose
None of these habits eliminate risk entirely, but together they make a real, measurable difference.
If you’re concerned about your Alzheimer’s risk, or have a family history, I invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss it in more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tau blood test for Alzheimer’s?
It’s a blood test that measures levels of a protein called p-tau217. Elevated levels have been associated with a higher risk of developing cognitive impairment over the following 5 to 10 years.
Should I get this test routinely?
It’s not currently recommended as a routine screening for the general population, since there’s still no definitive treatment for tau protein. Its main value today is in research and clinical trial settings.
Are there medications to treat tau protein?
Several are in active development, with promising but still mixed early results. None is yet approved as a definitive treatment, unlike existing medications for amyloid plaques.
What’s the biggest risk factor for Alzheimer’s?
Age is the most important risk factor and isn’t modifiable. However, many other risk factors can be modified through lifestyle habits.
What habits help reduce Alzheimer’s risk?
Regular exercise, managing hypertension and diabetes, sleeping well, staying mentally active, and cultivating meaningful social relationships are habits with strong scientific support for reducing risk.