- Alzheimer’s disease affects many people around the world today.
- It is hard to detect in the very early stage.
- A new nasal swab may help find early biological signs.
- The swab takes living cells from high inside the nose.
- A clinician uses a numbing spray and tiny brush first.
- The test can show changes before thinking problems start.
- Researchers compared samples from people with and without signs.
- Scientists hope the swab will allow earlier treatment for patients.
Difficult words
- detect — find something that is hidden or small
- nasal — connected to the nose or inside the nose
- swab — small stick used to take a sample
- cell — small living parts that make up a bodycells
- treatment — medical care to help a sick person
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you try a nasal swab test?
- Do you think early tests are helpful?
- Have you had a medical test like this before?
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