The dementia fight has advanced a lot as a first-of-its-kind blood test that will be able to detect dementia decades even before symptoms strike – is going to be rolled out across the UK.
The ground-breaking technique by University of Cambridge scientists could transform the diagnosis and treatment of dementia, especially frontotemporal dementia which is a type of dementia diagnosed in young people.
Why Is This Test a Game-Changer?
Previously, a diagnosis of dementia relied on costly and time-consuming brain scans, which required specialised machinery. Cambridge research associate Dr Maura Malpetti has now discovered the key to identifying molecular alterations related to inflammation in the brain within the blood, which is a cheap and effective method of early detection.
This research has been made possible by three-time Formula 1 world champion Sir Jackie Stewart’s Race Against Dementia charity.
Inspired by his wife Helen’s diagnosis, he applied F1 skills of precision, teamwork, and speed development to accelerate innovation in medical treatment for dementia.
The research will focus on frontotemporal dementia – which is also the type actor Bruce Willis was diagnosed with in 2023 – but aims to help accelerate the development of treatments for other types of dementia.
Dementia mostly affects people over 65, but frontotemporal dementia tends to start at a younger age, though it can affect older people too.
There are about 20,000 people in the UK living with frontotemporal dementia, but Dr Malpetti said because it is less common, people with the condition are often misdiagnosed.
Research has already shown that higher brain inflammation is associated with faster clinical decline in people with frontotemporal dementia, similar to Alzheimer’s disease, and Dr Malpetti said this points to the potential of immunotherapy in treating dementia.
The study will be conducted at over 20 research and health centres in the UK, with varied participation to achieve maximum benefit. With every step forward, the potential for developing life-changing therapies becomes real.
What This Means for the Future
- Earlier Detection: Identifying changes 10-20 years before symptoms emerge.
- Better Treatment: The potential that immunotherapy might stop or even prevent disease progression.
- Increased Access: A simple blood test could replace expensive, less accessible brain scans.
How You Can Get Involved
If you, or someone you know, would like to be involved in this research, watch this space for the latest news from the University of Cambridge and Alzheimer’s Research UK. Early diagnosis and awareness are the best way to make a difference.
Why This Matters to Homecare Gurus
We are most interested at Homecare Gurus in staying current with healthcare developments that impact caregiving. Dementia is a global phenomenon, and identifying it early means that families and caregivers can prepare better, receive access to resources sooner, and provide the best quality of care for their loved ones.
Contact us to learn more about the care services we offer for people living with dementia.