India's First AI Blood Test Catches Early Alzheimer's

Mahajan Imaging & Labs has launched India’s first AI-integrated blood biomarker test for early Alzheimer’s detection. The USFDA- and CDSCO-approved pTAU217/βAmyloid1-42 plasma test identifies Alzheimer’s pathology before severe cognitive decline sets in. Unveiled at a Gurugram symposium on Sunday, it promises broader access to timely diagnosis amid India’s escalating dementia crisis. The test shifts from invasive cerebrospinal fluid procedures to a simple blood draw, enabling clinicians to spot biological changes early. This development aligns Indian diagnostics with global standards, following the USFDA’s clearance of the first such blood test in May 2025. Escalating Dementia Burden Fuels Urgent Need Dementia affects over 8.8 million Indians aged 60 and above, with projections estimating a near-doubling to 16.9 million cases by 2036. A University of Southern California and AIIMS-Delhi study pegs prevalence at 7.4 per cent among seniors, varying from 4.5 per cent in Delhi to 11 per cent in Jammu and Kashmir. Population ageing drives this surge, underscoring the need for scalable early detection tools. Traditional methods like amyloid PET scans, costing up to Rs 2 lakh each, remain inaccessible for most, leaving diagnosis reliant on late-stage symptoms. Prof. V.S. Mehta, Padma Shri awardee and Chairman Emeritus of Neurosciences at Paras Health, Gurgaon, hailed the launch. “Early and accurate diagnosis forms the cornerstone of effective Alzheimer’s care,” he said. “AI-driven blood biomarkers paired with PET and MRI imaging transform Indian neurology, allowing intervention before symptoms debilitate.” Streamlined Diagnostic Pathway Enhances Accessibility The new protocol starts with the blood test as the primary gatekeeper. Positive or borderline results trigger AI-enabled MRI brain imaging and FDG PET scans if warranted. It targets those over 50 with memory issues, mild cognitive impairment, family history, or limited imaging access. Clinical data shows the test’s 91.7 per cent positive concordance and 97.3 per cent negative concordance with amyloid PET scans. Dr. Harsh Mahajan, founder and chairman of Mahajan Imaging & Labs, highlighted cost barriers. “High expenses have sidelined advanced imaging; this blood test removes that hurdle.” Over 40 neurologists and imaging experts attended the symposium, debating how integrated lab-imaging diagnostics reshape care. Expert Backing Signals Shift in Alzheimer’s Care Dr. Shelly Mahajan, Lab Director at Mahajan Imaging & Labs, emphasised the timing. “Blood biomarkers detect pathology early, empowering patients and families to plan ahead,” she said. “This aligns India with global evolution in Alzheimer’s diagnostics.” The launch addresses a critical gap, as early intervention via lifestyle changes, medications, and support can slow progression. With dementia set to overwhelm healthcare systems, scalable tools like this pTAU/Aβ1-42 test could redefine outcomes for millions. Mahajan Imaging plans wider rollout across its network, positioning India at the forefront of AI-assisted neurology. Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates! App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share