local
A new blood test may predict Alzheimer’s risk. It isn’t ready for prime time
By CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7
· July 15, 2026
· 6 min read
By Sandee LaMotte, CNN
(CNN) — Cognitively healthy older adults with high levels of a biomarker called p-tau217 in their blood had an estimated 38% greater chance of developing early signs of dementia over five years, a new study found. Over 10 years, the risk was 78% higher, although the data ...
Key takeaway However, blood tests that measure levels of phosphorylated tau 217, or p-tau217, “strongly predict” the buildup of sticky beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, Buckley said.
Why this matters in The El Paso
In El Paso , where the population is aging and healthcare access can be a challenge, the potential for a simple blood test to predict Alzheimer's risk could have significant implications. Local healthcare providers may soon have a new tool to identify individuals at high risk of cognitive decline, allowing for earlier intervention and potentially slowing the progression of the disease. This could be particularly important in El Paso, where access to specialized care and diagnostic tests like PET scans or spinal taps may be limited. As researchers continue to refine the p-tau217 test, El Pasoans may benefit from increased access to preventive care and treatment options, ultimately improving health outcomes for those affected by Alzheimer's and dementia. The city's healthcare community will be watching closely as this technology develops, with the hope that it can one day be used to improve the lives of local residents.
About this story
Original reporting by KVIA ABC-7 . The El Paso surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KVIA ABC-7 . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 15, 2026 ·
Source: KVIA ABC-7 ·
Reading time: 6 min
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What is this story about? By Sandee LaMotte, CNN
(CNN) — Cognitively healthy older adults with high levels of a biomarker called p-tau217 in their blood had an estimated 38% greater chance of developing early signs of dementia over five years, a new study found. Over 10 years, the risk was 78% higher, although the data ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 15, 2026 by KVIA ABC-7 and curated for The El Paso readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by CNN Newsource at KVIA ABC-7. To learn more about how The El Paso selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The El Paso, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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