Despite advances in genetic testing, current polygenic risk scores demonstrate lower predictive accuracy for Alzheimer's across diverse ancestries, with models developed in European populations being about one-third as informative for African ancestry, highlighting a significant challenge in precision medicine.
The inadequacy of European-derived polygenic risk scores crystallizes in the inadequacy of European-derived polygenic risk scores, underscoring how reliance on data from predominantly European cohorts undermines risk stratification in underrepresented groups. Clinicians seeking to integrate Alzheimer's genetic risk assessments must recognize that incomplete genomic data erodes the foundation of precision medicine and may perpetuate health disparities.
Compounding this genomic gap, economic evaluations have reshaped treatment availability. The UK health service’s rejection of costly Alzheimer's drugs illustrates how stringent cost-effectiveness thresholds override modest efficacy gains. The same data gaps that hinder risk assessment also constrain therapeutic planning, as reflected in studies analyzing the impact of genomic data diversity on decision-making.
Going forward, success in personalized interventions will depend on balancing inclusive DNA testing with clear, understandable financial strategies and health planning models. These economic assessments reinforce that promising therapies must deliver meaningful clinical benefit at an acceptable cost, while sustainable incorporation of multi-ancestry genomic data remains a key priority to ensure equitable access to precision interventions.
Key Takeaways:- Current polygenic risk scores may not effectively predict Alzheimer's across diverse populations, necessitating inclusive genomic data.
- Cost-effectiveness and economic evaluations are critical in determining the viability of new Alzheimer's treatments.
- Inclusive genetic data is vital for developing equitable Alzheimer's treatment strategies worldwide.
- Future research must balance treatment efficacy with economic considerations to expand access to emerging therapies.