A major new trial in Bristol is exploring whether simple blood tests could help diagnose dementia earlier — a breakthrough experts say could revolutionise care for millions.
Despite advances in dementia drugs, nearly one-third of people in the UK living with the condition still remain undiagnosed. Without a diagnosis, patients lose crucial time to access treatment, support services, and future planning.
The new initiative, led by North Bristol NHS Trust in collaboration with the University of Bristol, aims to change that by testing the accuracy and reliability of new and existing biomarker-based blood tests for dementia detection.
“A Game-Changer for Patients and Families”
Prof Elizabeth Coulthard, who is leading the research, said early diagnosis is critical but still far too rare.
“Every week I see patients who want to know why their memory isn’t as good as it used to be. Only with better diagnosis can we deliver new treatments that offer hope to millions.”
A Simple Test, Life-Changing Answers
Martin Short, 79, who joined the study after noticing memory changes, said the blood test could offer peace of mind.
“If I can find out by a simple blood test whether there’s nothing to worry about — or whether we should look deeper — that would be brilliant.”
He added that giving people more clarity and options early on “is a huge comfort”.
National Support for a Breakthrough Approach
Dr Sheona Scales from Alzheimer’s Research UK said early and accurate diagnosis is one of patients’ top priorities:
“A diagnosis means access to treatment, support and planning. A blood test could truly revolutionise dementia diagnosis in the UK.”
The trial forms part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge, supported by Alzheimer’s Society, Alzheimer’s Research UK and the People’s Postcode Lottery through Dementias Platform UK (DPUK).
Prof Coulthard warned delay could cost lives:
“It will be disastrous if people cannot get diagnosed early enough to benefit from new drugs.”
If successful, the UK could soon see blood-based dementia diagnosis rolled out across the NHS — a major shift in how the disease is detected and treated.
