Table 4.

Suggested language regarding amyloid positivity^c

Continue to emphasize what is currently known:  – A person with a positived amyloid result has a higher risk of developing AD dementia, but it does not mean they will definitely develop AD dementia within their lifetime.  – A positive amyloid result by itself cannot predict whether someone will definitely develop memory or thinking problems caused by AD dementia or when this may happen.  – Amyloid is necessary but not sufficient for the development of AD dementia  – There are other causes of dementia besides Alzheimer’s disease. Amyloid results cannot tell you about these other causes, only about dementia caused by AD.

Consider adding a statement that medications to reduce amyloid have not been shown to slow or stabilize cognitive decline:  – New medications can help reduce amyloid in the brain, but it is still unknown if reducing amyloid will help with memory and thinking problems.

Consider adding a statement that being amyloid negative now does not guarantee one will not develop AD in future given evidence suggesting this message is not always well understood:  – Your amyloid result is a “snapshot” of your brain at a certain time. Being amyloid negative now could change in future.

^cThis language can be used verbatim or adapted based on specific needs and contexts.

^dWe use the word positive here to indicate a result of “elevated” amyloid. Researchers should use the term most suitable for their context, and most studies currently refer to “elevated”.