Alzheimer’s blood test to be offered by Scottish GPs in ‘landmark’ study

Alzheimer Scotland warmly welcomes the news of a landmark new study being launched in Scotland that could pave the way for faster dementia diagnoses.

Hundreds of Scots suspected of having Alzheimer’s disease will be given access to a new blood test for the condition through their GP.

More than 50 general practices in central and northern Scotland are taking part in the study, which is called Bringing Alzheimer’s Disease Biomarkers to General Practice (BriDGe).

The project is led by Scottish Brain Sciences and will look at how blood tests could speed up dementia diagnoses, and give people earlier access to the best care, support and treatments.

Up to 500 people are expected to be referred for a test, making it the largest UK study of Alzheimer’s blood tests in general practice.

The blood-based biomarker tests work by measuring levels of tau proteins which are linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Trials have shown the tests can help primary care doctors diagnose Alzheimer’s almost as effectively as dementia specialists – around 90% for both. They have also shown to be helpful in ruling out the condition earlier and more accurately than many existing memory tests or scans.

The tests have been described as one of the most exciting developments in dementia research.

Our Chief Executive Henry Simmons said: “This is a fantastic step forward in seeing if we can begin to put together the pieces of the jigsaw that we need to create a comprehensive dementia care pathway for all those at risk of developing this disease.

“These tests – considered alongside other diagnostic factors – should help identify those most at risk more quickly. An early, accurate diagnosis is vital in giving people prompt access to the best care, support and treatment that can slow down the progress of the disease.

“But it’s important to emphasise that these tests are not a silver bullet – they are just one of a number of different elements that must be in place to help us tackle this disease effectively.

“Another critical component to developing this pathway will be the introduction of promising new dementia drugs. However, at the moment, it is proving difficult to have these made available on the NHS. We would like to see a new, innovative form of assessment brought in for these treatments that would help reinforce their overall value in the lives of people living with dementia and their families.

“There is a lot of work still to be done, but we’re optimistic that a solution can be found and that Scotland can continue to lead the way on dementia care innovations.”