Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleNick ForbesWednesday 15 July 2026 01:57 BST5 early signs of Alzheimer’s you shouldn’t ignoreA landmark study in Scotland, known as BriDGe, is offering people suspected of having Alzheimer’s disease the opportunity to receive a blood test through their general practitioner.More than 50 GP surgeries across central and northern Scotland are participating in the initiative, led by Scottish Brain Sciences, aiming to refer up to 500 patients.The project seeks to accelerate diagnosis, empower GPs with more informed decision-making, and ensure earlier access to crucial support and treatments for patients.The study utilises specific blood tests, p-tau181 and p-tau217, developed by Roche Diagnostics, which can detect or rule out Alzheimer's earlier and more accurately than existing methods.Experts highlight that earlier diagnosis can aid patients with lifestyle modifications, allow them to access support sooner, and facilitate future planning, potentially transforming Alzheimer's diagnosis.In fullNew blood test for Alzheimer’s disease to be rolled out in GPs as part of ‘landmark’ study – here’s what to knowMore bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in