Uncovering barriers to early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease: a European perspective

INTRODUCTION: Timely and accurate diagnosis of early Alzheimer's disease (AD) is critical to maximizing the potential benefits of disease-modifying therapies; however, it remains a challenge in clinical practice.

METHODS: A double-blind survey was conducted among general practitioners (GPs; n = 52) and AD specialists (neurologists, psychiatrists, geriatricians, and others; n = 75) across five European countries to evaluate healthcare practitioners' (HCPs) perceptions of diagnosing AD. Data from all countries were pooled and presented overall.

RESULTS: GPs are usually the first point of contact for patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)/AD. Only 30% of patients received a formal diagnosis of AD during the MCI stage, and it took patients 15.2 months from symptom onset to their first primary care visit. The most common challenges identified by HCPs were referral times, lack of effective treatment, and resource and time constraints.

DISCUSSION: Systemic reforms are required to remove barriers in early AD diagnosis, including tailored training and coordinated care between GPs and AD specialists.

HIGHLIGHTS: Timely diagnosis of eAD remains a major challenge in clinical practice.Only one-third of patients received a formal diagnosis of AD during the MCI stage.It took patients 15.2 months from symptom onset to first primary care visit.Key diagnostic barriers include referral delays and lack of effective treatments.Addressing these issues may improve eAD diagnosis and timely intervention.