Can Blood Tests Predict Dementia Risk in the Future?
For decades, diagnosing dementia has been a long and complex process. But that could be about to change.
According to Alzheimer’s Research UK, blood tests may soon revolutionise the way dementia is diagnosed. These new tests are faster, cheaper, and just as accurate as existing methods — giving hope for earlier and more precise answers.
At the moment, people experiencing memory problems often face lengthy waiting times for brain scans or lumbar punctures. These tests, while effective, are invasive, expensive, and not always easily accessible. A simple blood test could dramatically improve that journey.
Where are we now?
Right now, blood tests for dementia are only just starting to be used in research settings and in carefully monitored NHS trials. They are not yet available in routine care, but experts are optimistic that within five years, they could become part of standard practice.
One of the most promising tools being trialled is a blood test that measures a protein called ptau217. This protein reflects changes in the brain strongly linked with Alzheimer’s disease.
When combined with other diagnostic tools, the ptau217 blood test can correctly detect whether someone with memory problems has Alzheimer’s around 90% of the time. That level of accuracy could transform the way doctors identify the disease.
Why does this matter?
An earlier and more accurate diagnosis could mean:
People get the right treatment sooner
Families have more time to plan and prepare
Clinical trials can find participants earlier, speeding up research
Less invasive and more accessible testing for patients
What’s next?
The next big challenge is moving these tests out of research labs and into everyday NHS practice. That means making sure they are practical, affordable, and accessible to people across the UK.
The hope is clear: within the next five years, a simple blood test at your GP surgery could help detect dementia much earlier than ever before.
It’s not just science for science’s sake — it’s a step towards a future where families no longer spend years searching for answers.
