Alzheimer’s Society responds to news that the government is investing £2m for gamechanging blood tests to spot dementia sooner

Dr Richard Oakley, Associate Director of Research & Innovation at Alzheimer's Society, said:  

“More than a third of people with dementia in the UK do not receive a diagnosis. This means that thousands are facing the devastating realities of dementia without access to the vital care and support that a diagnosis can bring.  

“Early diagnosis is crucial to help people manage symptoms and avoid ending up in crisis, so we are pleased that the government is investing in cutting edge digital technology that will aide in the diagnosis of dementia. 

“We are especially proud that this digital cognitive test will be deployed alongside blood tests in the READ-OUT study as part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge – a game-changing collaborationbetween Alzheimer's Society and Alzheimer's Research UK made possible thanks to £5million raised by players of People's Postcode Lottery.  

“For years, Alzheimer's Society has been calling for dementia to be made a priority and while there is a lot more to do, these are important steps that show willing. By working together, we will progress further, faster. And we owe that to the one million people living with dementia in the UK today.”