Innovations in testing can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnosis
Exciting breakthroughs in dementia research are making it easier to diagnose the condition earlier and more accurately. The sooner a person is diagnosed, the better their chances of getting the right support and treatment.
One study, led by Stephen Ball at the University of Manchester, is looking at how the brain understands words and concepts. By using brain scans and other tests, researchers hope to spot early changes linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
A common myth is that you can only take part in dementia research if you already have memory problems. However, studies often need healthy volunteers to understand the condition better. This is because researchers need to compare brain activity in people with and without dementia. You can sign up to help through Join Dementia Research.
Researchers are working on new ways to detect dementia without the need for lengthy hospital tests. Here are a few examples of how:
- Blood tests – A new UK study is testing whether a simple blood test could replace brain scans for diagnosing different types of dementia. The study is part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge, a multi-million pound programme supported by Alzheimer’s Society, Alzheimer’s Research UK, NIHR, Gates Ventures and players of People’s Postcode Lottery
- Lasers – Researchers in Southampton are investigating whether shining a laser onto spinal fluid can help spot early signs of Alzheimer’s
- Digital technology – The government has invested almost £11 million into developing high-tech ways to diagnose dementia earlier
“I took part because my mum had dementia and she passed away in 2019. I will do anything if it can help find a diagnosis quicker.”
– Margaret Broughton-Smith, research participant
People like Margaret Broughton-Smith, whose mother had dementia, have taken part in studies to help improve testing for dementia in the future.
By volunteering, people can help speed up trials. This will give researchers the information they need to develop better tests and treatments.
We often need people without dementia or mild symptoms to take part in trials of new tests. If you want to take part, sign up to Join Dementia Research today.
Tomorrow, read the next in our series about 10 reasons to be hopeful, focused on studies that are helping to spot lesser-known symptoms earlier.