16-04-2025
Abu Dhabi launches first Alzheimer's early detection centre with advanced blood tests
Abu Dhabi will now see a new Alzheimer's disease centre dedicated to its early detection.
This region's first centre, which is one-of-its-kind, will offer novel blood-based screening starting at age 40, enabling early intervention and significantly enhancing patient outcomes.
The National Reference Laboratory (NRL), part of the M42 Group, will be the first centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics dedicated to early detection, in partnership with Neurocode International, global leader of neurology diagnostic solutions.
Announced on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, this Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics, is a step toward reducing Alzheimer's cases in the UAE and wider region and transforming neurological diagnostics worldwide.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
Alzheimer's disease is a major health issue, affecting over 57 million people globally as of 2021. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70 per cent of cases, and this number is on the rise.
Medics highlighted that by emphasising prevention and early detection of Alzheimer's, it becomes possible to manage symptoms and slow disease progression.
However, doctors also explained that traditional diagnostic methods are often invasive, typically involving spinal cord needle extraction, which results in low early detection rates.
Why is early detection key?
Changes in mood and behaviour sometimes occur even before memory problems start surfacing. Symptoms only get worse over time. Eventually, most people with this disease require others to help with daily activities.
Dr Laila AbdelWareth, Chief Executive Officer, NRL, said, 'The establishment of the Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics marks a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer's and other neurological disorders, with a sharp focus on advancing preventive health through precision detection.'
She added, 'By collaborating with Neurocode International, we are setting a new benchmark in neurological diagnostics worldwide that will accelerate early and accurate diagnostics of Alzheimer's, significantly improving patient outcomes.
The centre will have a full-time lab-based professor of neurology, with dementia training from Gothenburg University in Sweden.
Prof Henrik Zetterberg, an expert in the development of biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease and its diagnosis, and Prof Kaj Blennow, who is recognised for his key role in developing early diagnostic tools for the disease, will both be off-site expert consultants for the Centre.
Dr Hans Frykman, Chief Executive Officer, Neurocode International, said, 'We are delighted to announce the partnership with the visionary NRL to establish the world's leading clinical laboratory for brain disorders. With a team of the most experienced and renowned scientists in the field, we are poised to guide physicians in the Middle East and globally towards early and accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's and other brain disorders. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing neurological diagnostics and patient care."
AI-powered projects
Meanwhile, the Emirates Health Services (EHS) and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation (MBRCGI) earlier collaborated to develop and launch the 'Synthetic Memories' initiative—an innovative, AI-powered project designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and memory impairments.
Unveiled at Arab Health 2025, this groundbreaking initiative underscored the UAE's global leadership in ethical, human-centred AI solutions that address major healthcare challenges.
'Synthetic Memories' leverages generative AI to recreate fragmented memories through lifelike visual and auditory simulations of past experiences.
By combining artificial intelligence with neuropsychological insights, the project aims to slow cognitive decline, boost emotional well-being, and help patients reconnect with cherished memories.
