Nearly 7.5 Million Older Americans Possibly Suffering from Undiagnosed Mild Cognitive Impairment, Precursor to Alzheimer's, Says USC Research

USC studies indicate just 8% of US residents with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), an early sign of Alzheimer's, have been diagnosed; researchers urge improved detection measures as MCI is not a normal part of aging and recently-approved drugs may help if administered in early stages.

• New research from the University of Southern California (USC) indicates that an estimated 7.5 million older Americans could be suffering from undiagnosed mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a possible early sign of Alzheimer’s disease.
• The research reveals that only around 8% of US residents thought to have MCI have been diagnosed, leading experts to conclude that MCI is significantly underdiagnosed across the nation.
• MCI, contrary to popular belief, is not part of the normal ageing process. Recent FDA-approved drugs may help maintain cognitive function if administered early but are less effective in later stages of decline.
• USC research also highlighted the particularly high rates of MCI missed detection among historically disadvantaged groups, including Black and Hispanic Americans, and those with less education. These groups also reportedly have a higher risk of developing the condition.
• Identifying and treating MCI early is crucial, particularly with the recent approval of drugs like lecanemab, which can slow down disease progression in the early phase.

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