'Ground-breaking' dementia study seeks participants

Pictured: A MRI scan of a brain showing the early onset of dementia

Nearly 200 people are being sought by the NHS to take part in a study that could lead to early diagnoses of dementia.

The Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust said the "ground-breaking" study is open to those aged 45 and over who have been referred to its memory services or are experiencing memory problems.

Participants must also live in Surrey or northeast Hampshire, it added.

The study - called READ OUT - wants those taking part to give one 20ml blood sample, along with information on their medical history.

The test is highly accurate and can identify different types of dementia, such as Alzheimer's, vascular dementia and mild cognitive impairment, according to Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

"Early diagnosis is key to improving the lives of people with dementia," said Professor Ramin Nilforooshan, consultant psychiatrist and director of research and development at the trust.

"It gives people time to plan their lives, get their finances in order or maybe take a holiday they never had.

"It takes away the uncertainty," he added.