Families Worried About Alzheimer’s Turn To Expensive PET Scans For Early Diagnosis, But Test Has Downsides, Experts Warn

The test, which reveals if amyloid is forming in the brain, can cost $5,000 to $7,000 and isn't covered by insurance. But don't rush to judgement, experts warn: amyloid occurs commonly in older people’s brains, yet not everyone with amyloid will develop dementia. Nor does a negative PET scan mean someone won’t develop dementia. Public health news also looks at: racism, binge drinking, trust in science, stylish clothes for disabled teens, heatstroke, sun screen safety, alternative pain management, art therapy, unproven stem cell injections, hospice care, nut allergies and dying well.

from Kaiser Health News https://ift.tt/2M0zKGg