Abu Dhabi Hospital Unveils Brain Scan for Early Alzheimer’s Detection

A hospital in Abu Dhabi has introduced a new brain imaging tool that can detect Alzheimer’s disease years before symptoms appear. The advanced PET scan identifies early buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are linked to the onset of Alzheimer’s.

The technology is now in use at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), one of the UAE’s largest hospitals, operated in partnership with the US-based Mayo Clinic. The scan supports earlier and more accurate diagnosis, particularly for patients showing signs of mild cognitive impairment or those at higher risk of dementia.

While there is currently no cure, identifying Alzheimer’s in its pre-symptomatic stages can improve treatment outcomes and give patients and families more time to prepare. Early detection is considered critical in managing the disease’s progression and planning care strategies.

The scan also helps differentiate Alzheimer’s from other forms of dementia, allowing for more targeted and effective care pathways.