4. Early Diagnosis Can Impact Life Expectancy
The importance of early diagnosis in FTD cannot be overstated. The benefits of catching this condition in its earlier stages are multi-faceted.
For one, an early diagnosis allows for immediate intervention, which could help manage symptoms more effectively and potentially slow down disease progression. Moreover, early diagnosis provides the opportunity for patients and their families to plan for the future, making arrangements for care and finances before the disease significantly impairs cognitive function.
However, obtaining an early diagnosis of FTD can be challenging. The initial symptoms can be quite subtle and are often misattributed to other causes, such as stress, depression, or the natural aging process.
To compound the difficulty, the age at onset of FTD typically falls during midlife, a period when cognitive decline isn’t top of mind for most individuals or their healthcare providers. This can lead to a delay in diagnosis, which in turn, can impact the effectiveness of interventions and the overall life expectancy of the person with FTD.
When it comes to FTD, the adage that ‘knowledge is power’ truly applies. An early diagnosis equips those affected with the information and time they need to navigate their journey through FTD. And in a condition where life expectancy varies so greatly, having that time and information can make all the difference. (4)
