Bridging Health Disparity Gaps in Alzheimer's Disease among Marginalized Populations: Clinical Proteomics as a Case...

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and AD-related dementias (ADRD) represent a significant health challenge, with a growing impact on marginalized populations who often experience inequities in overall healthcare access and outcomes. Many factors contribute to these inequalities and can impact the benefits of broad appreciation of new technologies in AD/ADRD to these populations. For example, clinical proteomics offers a promising avenue for early and timely detection of disease and elucidation of the mechanisms of AD/ADRD. Unfortunately, gaps exist in the access and application of proteomic innovations for the health of marginalized communities. This editorial (1) highlights systemic barriers and explores the underlying factors that contribute to these inequities, (2) examines health disparities in the implementation of clinical proteomics tools for the management of AD/ADRD among marginalized populations, and (3) offers opportunities for advancing clinical proteomics in AD/ADRD. Implementation by basic and clinical researchers will lead to a more effective and inclusive approach to combatting AD/ADRD disparities.