RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

COGSCREEN II: Early Detection of Cognitive Impairment

The COGSCREEN II study is looking for improved ways to detect early signs of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in people aged 60 and above. Currently, it's hard to spot AD early, which means people might miss out on treatments that could help slow the disease down. This study works with local GPs and specialists to introduce new digital tests and blood tests that could help identify memory problems sooner. The goal is to build a system that can effectively find people who might benefit from future AD treatments, starting in Munich, Germany, but hopefully setting a standard for other places too. It's about giving us the tools to get an early diagnosis, which is crucial for managing conditions like AD.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Robert Perneczky

Enrolment target

400

Start

01 Jun 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2027

Alzheimer's Disease (AD)

What is this study about?

This study, called COGSCREEN II, is all about finding better ways to spot Alzheimer's disease (AD) as early as possible. We know that conditions like AD can cause changes in memory and thinking, but these can be really hard to notice in the early stages. Currently, our healthcare system isn't very good at catching these small changes, which means people might not get the support or future treatments they need right away. Catching AD early is really important because it could open doors to treatments that might slow down the disease, and help people live better for longer.

The COGSCREEN II project is working to solve this problem by teaming up with local doctors, including GPs and specialists like neurologists. These doctors are really committed to helping people with conditions like AD. The study plans to introduce new digital tests and blood tests to these doctors' practices. These new tools are designed to be more accurate at detecting very early memory issues, even before they cause big problems in a person's daily life. This means that if you're experiencing small memory changes, these new tests could help confirm if it's something more serious, like early AD.

The ultimate goal of this project is to build a strong system, starting in Munich, Germany, that can effectively identify people who have early AD. This would mean that when new treatments for AD become available, we'll be much better at finding the right people who could benefit most from them. This study aims to create a blueprint for how early AD diagnosis can be done more widely, not just in Germany but around the world, making sure more people get the chance for early intervention and care.

Key takeaways

The study aims to find better ways to spot early signs of Alzheimer's disease.
It involves working with local doctors (GPs and specialists).
New digital tests and blood tests are being used for early detection.
The goal is to help people get the right treatments sooner.
It focuses on people aged 60 and over.

Who may be eligible?

To be considered for this study, you need to be at least 60 years old. You must also be able to understand what the study involves and be happy to take part voluntarily. This will be confirmed by the doctor's team.

There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. If you have already been diagnosed with dementia by a doctor, or if your medical records show a dementia diagnosis, then this study isn't for you. Also, if you have severe sight or hearing problems that would make it difficult for you to complete the tests, you wouldn't be able to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 60 years old or older?
Can you understand what the study is asking you to do?
Have you *not* been diagnosed with dementia by a doctor?
Are your sight and hearing good enough to complete computer tests?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study aims to detect cognitive impairment early. Taking part would involve visiting your local GP or specialist doctor who is part of the study network. During these visits, you would undergo some digital cognitive tests, which are computer-based assessments of your memory and thinking skills. You might also have blood tests taken to look for specific markers related to Alzheimer's disease. The study builds on previous work, COGSCREEN, which involved recruiting people from community settings. The total duration of participation and the number of visits would be explained fully by the study team, as the focus is on introducing and evaluating these new detection methods in a doctor's practice.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer you the benefit of early detection if you have very early signs of cognitive impairment, potentially allowing for earlier discussions about future care and treatments. The risks are generally low, mainly involving the minor discomfort of blood tests and the time commitment for assessments. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie am LMU Klinikum
Verified postcode
München, Germany· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'cognitive impairment'?

Cognitive impairment means having some difficulties with your memory, thinking, or concentration. It can be very mild and not affect daily life much.

Why is early detection of Alzheimer's important?

Finding Alzheimer's disease early means doctors can offer support and plan for future care sooner. It also means you might be able to access new treatments when they become available.

What kind of tests will I have?

You might take some computer-based memory and thinking tests, and also have blood samples taken for analysis.

Will I get a diagnosis through this study?

The study aims to improve early detection methods. If specific markers are found, it would help your doctor in making a diagnosis, but the study itself is focused on the testing methods.

Is this study available outside of Germany?

Currently, this part of the project is focusing on building a system in Munich, Germany. However, the goal is for it to serve as a template that could be used in other places in the future.

How to find out more

Prof. Dr. Robert Perneczky

robert.perneczky@med.uni-muenchen.de +89440055772 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.