Detecting DEMENTIA

A qutck trip to the optician could lead to the prompt diagnosis and improved treatment of this neurodegenerative disease

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AIzheimer's disease has gripped health headlines over recent years. And it's no wonder - there are currently more than 850,000 people living with this condition in the UK and this is set to rise to 1.5 million by 2040*.

It's a progressive condition, which means symptoms develop gradually over many years, and it affects multiple brain functions. Symptoms include loss of memory, confusion, difficulty making decisions, problems with speech and personality changes, together with low mood and anxiety.

Although scientists have been desperately trying to close in on a cure since its first discovery in 1906, diagnosing, let alone treating this destructive disease, has always been a challenge - until a clever breakthrough.

Revolutionary screening

It's hard to believe that a condition as complex as Alzheimer's disease could potentially have such a simple solution, but it's true. According to a study**, a straightforward eye test carried out at the optician - usually used to spot early signs of eye disease - could help to predict who is at risk.