A major nationwide research initiative exploring whether straightforward blood tests can transform dementia diagnosis across the NHS has reached a significant milestone, enrolling its 500th participant.
The study aims to determine if a panel of blood biomarkers can complement existing memory clinic assessments, offering earlier and more accurate diagnosis for those with dementia-related conditions.
Alexander McCreadie, a 75-year-old Bath resident and former Army serviceman, became the landmark participant after being diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) through ReMind UK, an independent charity delivering NHS memory services for Bath and North East Somerset.
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Having noticed increasing forgetfulness, Alexander sought help in 2024. Originally from Scotland, he has lived in Bath for 26 years. After joining the Army at age 17 and serving for 25 years, Alexander pursued a career in health and safety within the mobile crane industry. He enjoys staying active through bowling and values time with his large family, including five children, 11 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Expressing optimism, Alexander said, “If sharing my experience helps people better understand memory problems and breaks down some of the stigma around dementia, then that is a positive step. Fear and misunderstanding often prevent people from seeking help.”
He emphasized the importance of research in improving diagnosis and treatments, adding, “The more we understand, the better life will be for people like me living with these conditions.”
The Read-out (Real World Dementia Outcomes) study forms part of the Blood Biomarker Challenge, a multi-million-pound initiative led by Alzheimer’s Society and Alzheimer’s Research UK, supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, Gates Ventures, and funds from People’s Postcode Lottery players.
Dr. Tom Welsh, Research and Medical Director at ReMind UK, acknowledged the milestone, stating, “We are thrilled that ReMind UK in Bath was home to the 500th participant. We are deeply grateful to Alexander and all volunteers who are helping us build crucial evidence to improve dementia diagnosis nationwide.”
Participants provide blood samples and cognitive health information, allowing researchers to assess the reliability of blood tests in detecting Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies across diverse populations, including older adults and those with conditions like kidney disease.
Professor Vanessa Raymont, Associate Director at Dementias Platform UK and lead researcher, highlighted the significance of the milestone, saying, “We are at an exciting juncture in dementia research, with emerging drugs able to slow early Alzheimer’s disease.”
While such treatments are not yet NHS-approved, revolutionizing diagnostic methods is vital. “It would be devastating if people missed early diagnosis and the chance to benefit from new therapies. Accurate blood biomarkers can provide that critical advantage,” Professor Raymont added.
ReMind UK is one of 33 Dementias Platform UK (DPUK) locations encompassing NHS memory clinics and research centres, with 22 currently active and 12 more expected to join in 2026. The study aims to recruit over 3,100 participants from diverse backgrounds.
Improving the UK’s dementia diagnosis rate—currently 65.6%, just below the NHS England target of 66.7%—is a key goal. The Read-out study runs alongside the Adapt trial, launched in September 2025, which tests whether a specific blood biomarker, plasma pTau217, can enhance diagnostic accuracy.
Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, praised the milestone, stating, “Early diagnosis is crucial. We are proud to support research that could transform how dementia is detected and managed.”
Anyone concerned about dementia symptoms is encouraged to consult their GP or visit relevant NHS services.