UK trial launches blood test to improve dementia diagnosis at scale

UK Launches Trial for Improved Dementia Diagnosis via Blood Tests

A significant trial has started in the UK to evaluate a panel of blood tests designed to detect dementia more rapidly and accurately in diverse populations. The study is led by the University of Bristol alongside North Bristol NHS Trust.

This effort is part of the broader Blood Biomarker Challenge, supported by leading dementia charities and the People’s Postcode Lottery. By involving participants from minority ethnic backgrounds, older age groups, and those with additional health issues, the trial aims to show how blood-based diagnostics could revolutionize dementia care within the NHS.

Project Leadership and Objectives

The research is conducted by the READ-OUT (REAl World Dementia OUTcomes) team at Dementias Platform UK (DPUK). Its goal is to close diagnostic gaps, enhance early dementia detection, and improve outcomes for people affected by the condition.

“We’re in an incredibly exciting time for dementia research right now, with new drugs that can slow early Alzheimer’s disease. Although these are not yet approved for use in the NHS, we urgently need to revolutionise the way we diagnose people in this country.”
— Elizabeth Coulthard, Professor of Cognitive Neurology, University of Bristol and Consultant Neurologist, North Bristol NHS Trust

Significance of Early Diagnosis

The trial intends to establish blood tests as reliable tools for faster dementia diagnosis, potentially transforming patient care throughout the UK National Health Service.

This approach emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring diagnostic advances benefit all demographic groups affected by dementia.

Summary: A UK-led trial is testing blood-based diagnostics to enable earlier, more accurate dementia detection across diverse populations, driving innovation in NHS dementia care.

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Open Access Government Open Access Government — 2025-11-07

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