Blood test that diagnoses Alzheimer’s up to 15 years before symptoms could be free on NHS within a year [Video]

A BLOOD test that detects Alzheimer’s up to 15 years before symptoms emerge is set to be made free on the NHS within a year.

The new test is cheaper, easier and at least as accurate as the current diagnosis options, previous studies have shown.

It works by measuring levels of a protein in the blood called p-tau217.

The protein is a sign of the devastating disease in the brain caused when tau starts to attack neurons. 

These proteins can build up 15 years before typical symptoms such as forgetfulness and cognitive decline take hold.

The Dementia Research Institute at University College London, which can receive tests from anywhere in the country, says it can analyse 100,000 a year.

UCL scientists have to complete a formal “validation process” for regulators, but they …