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Blood Tests Could Revolutionise Dementia Diagnosis
Charities say players £5 Million support has been a “game changer.”
03 June 2026
Dementia researchers believe they are on the cusp of an innovation that will transform diagnosis in the NHS within the next three years.
Dementia is the leading cause of death in the UK, yet over a third of those living with the condition remain undiagnosed - preventing thousands of people from accessing the treatment, care, and support they urgently need.
The Blood Biomarker Challenge, which has been supported with £5 Million in funding raised by Postcode Lottery players, aims to change that.
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Postcode Lottery players are supporting the Blood Biomarker Challenge with £5 Million in funding
Professor Fiona Carragher, Chief Policy and Research Officer, Alzheimer’s Society, said: "Dementia is one of the biggest global challenges we face. We have to do something better.
We want to find out if we can revolutionise the way in which we diagnose dementia by using blood tests and that is where the Blood Biomarker Challenge comes in."
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Professor Fiona Carragher believes Blood Biomarker Challenge could transform dementia diagnosis
The ADAPT trial and READ-OUT study, which together form the Blood Biomarker Challenge, are currently underway and if successful, could mean that when someone is referred to a clinic for diagnosis within the NHS, they will have rapid access to a simple, non-invasive, and inexpensive blood test.
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Could blood tests be keys?
It's hoped the tests will be able to diagnose different forms of dementia earlier and more accurately than current methods - which can include expensive and invasive procedures such as lumbar punctures and brain imaging using MRI and CT scans.
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Research collaboration vital for project
Researchers say diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease at its earliest stages would also allow people time to put in place support and care, take part in clinical trials and access new treatments when they become available.
Dr Sheona Scales, Director of Research, Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: "Getting an early diagnosis is now more important than ever, especially as we are starting to see treatments on the horizon that may be able to slow the progression of the diseases which cause dementia.
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Dr Sheona Scales praises support of Postcode Lottery players
"This is why the Blood Biomarker Challenge is so important and why funding from Postcode Lottery players has been so transformative."