If a reliable test to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease before the onset of any symptoms existed, 90% of French people would submit to it.
This is what reveals a survey sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Ethical Space at the occasion of the University of ?? té Alzheimer which will be held from September 17 to 20, 2013 on the theme of “Wanting to know: anticipating, diagnosing, mobilizing”.
The advantages of getting tested
Even if today no treatment cures this disease, for 72% of French people, knowing that we have Alzheimer’s disease before it happens. The appearance of the first symptoms has more advantages than disadvantages. Getting tested would provide reassurance in the event of negative results, and have time to prepare, in particular anticipate your future, in the event of a positive test. 63% of the French would be reassured to be able to take decisions for their future in full possession of their faculties. 54% of them declared that in the event of a positive diagnosis, they would have time to organize their care and prepare for the disease with their loved ones. About 42% of those polled prefer to live knowingly and take advantage of the time that remains.
Alzheimer’s, a disease that worries the French
According to this survey, 6 in 10 French people believe they know the disease. Many think about it for themselves (52%) and for their loved ones (60%). And for 62% of the French, a simple memory hole instantly recalls this disease which greatly worries 10% of them. The resulting addiction was the most anxiety-provoking feature of the disease for them; overwhelmingly, they did not consider themselves capable of dealing with it. With the possible announcement of this disease, the French would have difficulty communicating the diagnosis. Indeed, 61% of them believe that some people should not be informed. The disease can be revealed to her spouse, her doctor and to a lesser extent, her children. But outside this sphere of proximity, the disease must not be declared.
This survey was carried out by TNS Sofres, for the National Space for Ethical Reflection on Alzheimer’s Disease, based on a sample of 2001 people representative of the French population aged 18 and over.
