Alzheimer’s Diagnosis: Real-World Physician Behavior Across Countries

Abstract

Introduction: Appropriate management of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) helps preserve their independence and time at home. We explored physician behavior in the management of AD, focusing on diagnosis. Methods: Online questionnaires and patient record forms (PRFs) were created by an independent market research agency and completed by participating physicians. Physicians were recruited from France, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the USA. A sample of 1086 physicians was recruited, including general practitioners, geriatricians, neurologists, and psychiatrists. Physicians completed an online interview and 2-3 PRFs based on randomly selected records of their patients with AD. Data on triggers and timing of diagnosis were captured. Data were assessed for all countries combined (global) and within each country and physician specialty. Results: A total of 3346 PRFs were submitted. Approximately half of patients received diagnosis within 6 months. There were large country differences. In France, only 35% of patients were diagnosed within 6 months compared to 65% in Japan. Physicians in France also reported diagnoses taking [ 9 months for a substantial number of patients (39%) compared with other countries (16-29%). Caregivers were the main driver toward diagnosis. Physician suspicion of AD was a trigger for diagnosis in only 20% of cases, globally. Overall, referral rates were low (14-23%). Conclusion:This study suggests that detection and timely diagnosis of AD remains suboptimal. This highlights the importance of fostering awareness of early symptoms and education on the benefits of timely diagnosis, a critical step in initiating treatment as early as possible.

Alzheimer’s Treatment: Real-World Physician Behavior Across Countries

“…As described in Part 1 of our report [13], physicians from an online panel were approached via email and were asked to indicate their consent to participate in the study. If the physicians agreed to participate they were then screened according to the predefined selection criteria.…”

“…The methods for the collection and analysis of physician questionnaires and patient record forms (PRFs) have been previously described in Part 1 [13]. Briefly, online interviews were conducted with GPs, neurologists, geriatricians and psychiatrists in France, Germany, Japan, the UK and the USA.…”

“…A detailed description of participating physicians was provided in Part 1 of our report [13]. Briefly, 1086 physicians, including 428 GPs, 356 neurologists, 151 geriatricians and 151 psychiatrists, were interviewed, and 3346 PRFs were submitted.…”

“…Consideration of comorbidities, such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and a history of myocardial infarction, is also important, because these can contribute to the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration, and the development of frailty, in patients with AD [12]. Part 1 of our report focused on physicians' behavior in diagnosing AD, specifically the triggers and timing of AD diagnosis [13]. However, timely initiation of AD-specific treatment is also crucial for maintaining patient independence [14].…”

In silico Analysis of Polymorphisms in microRNAs Deregulated in Alzheimer Disease

“…Increasing life expectancy has led to an increase in people over the age of 60 in the world, as well as an increase in the prevalence of neurological diseases such as dementia. Based on a 2015 Alzheimer’s report, it is projected to reach more than 130 million people in the world by 2050 ( Podhorna et al, 2020 ).…”