A new test could fast-track diagnosis of Dementia

Diagnosis times for dementia could be cut to a few weeks as a new test could fast-track diagnosis of Dementia. The pilot project based in Sussex will use high tech memory tests and brain scans to spot the condition at a specialist clinic.

Currently, it can take months or perhaps even years for Alzheimer’s to be spotted and diagnosed via GP tests. And that is in order to get a specialist referral. The newly announced pilot project based in Sussex will adopt and use a series of high tech memory tests and brain scans to spot the condition. If all this proves successful, then it could see such 'high tech centres' rolled out nationwide to identify and spot dementia early on. So that patients can receive the right drugs and help when coping and dealing with the condition. GPs will also be given iPad apps in order to test a patient’s memory. Additionally, a mobile diagnosis vehicle will also be trialled to provide dementia assessments outside local GP surgeries, so that people get the most up to date treatment on their doorstep. Apparently, there are more than 350,000 people currently living with undiagnosed dementia and who are left without any care or support. It is estimated that by the year 2020 there will be almost 1 million people who have dementia. That is an increase of almost 50% based on the current level of 670,000. This new pilot project is part of the Government backed “Biomedical Catalyst” that has been awarded to a number of businesses and universities to help find new ways of tackling health issues and problems.