Researchers at Duke University in the United States have reported a promising way to identify Alzheimer’s disease early — using a routine nasal swab. The method resembles procedures long used to diagnose viral infections, but in this case it analyzes biomarkers associated with neurodegenerative processes.
Alzheimer’s disease develops gradually: changes in the brain begin years before noticeable symptoms appear. Because of this, early diagnosis remains one of medicine’s main challenges. The new approach is based on the idea that certain signals, potentially reflecting processes in the brain, can be detected in samples from the nasal cavity.
The main advantage of the technology is its simplicity and the lack of complex invasive procedures. Today, diagnosing the disease may involve expensive imaging methods and specialized tests. In theory, a nasal swab could make early screening much more accessible and convenient for patients.
Research is still ongoing and the method still needs additional validation. Still, the idea fits well with a modern medical trend: identifying diseases as early as possible to increase the chances of slowing their progression and preserving quality of life.
