Led by Professor Vanessa Raymont, OHFT’s R&D Director and Associate Director at DPUK and her team, the study aims to transform how diseases that can lead to dementia are diagnosed across the NHS.

READ-OUT (REAl-world Dementia OUTcomes) is investigating the use of blood-based biomarkers to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease and other causes of dementia such as vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies. With around one-third of the UK’s one million people with dementia currently undiagnosed, this research addresses a critical gap in care and aims to make it easier to get an accurate diagnosis in order to access the most appropriate care. The goal is to make a panel of the best blood tests for dementia a routine part of NHS practice within five years.

The study is part of a £13.5 million national effort, The Blood Biomarker Challenge, funded by Alzheimer’s Society, Alzheimer’s Research UK, National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), Gates Ventures, and People’s Postcode Lottery. It involves collecting blood samples from 3,000 volunteers across 29 UK sites, including Oxford Health’s Clinical Research Facility (OH CRF) at Warneford Hospital. A second phase will assess how blood testing impacts diagnosis, care, and quality of life for 880 participants. Mobile research units will also reach underserved communities to ensure diversity and equity in participation.

Prof Vanessa Raymont

“Having Oxford Health as the first of 15 sites is a proud moment for the READ-OUT project,” said Professor Raymont. “Our team’s dedication ensures we can work with diverse communities, helping to shape future NHS diagnostic pathways that are inclusive and evidence based.”

OHFT’s involvement has already attracted national media attention, including coverage from Sky News and The Times, and reflects the Trust’s leadership in dementia research and commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovation.

How You Can Get Involved

Whether you’re a clinician, researcher, patient, or member of the public, there are many ways to support READ-OUT:

• Volunteer for the study: Volunteers from all backgrounds are needed for this research to continue. If you would like to help, you can register online
• Spread the word: Share information about READ-OUT with colleagues, patients, and your networks.
• Join the conversation: OHFT staff can engage with the R&D team to learn more about the study and its impact. Email: oxfordhealth.CRF@nhs.net
• Visit the DPUK website to register interest or find out more: READ-OUT at DPUK.

Together, we can help shape a future where dementia is diagnosed earlier and treated more effectively.

Coverage published today in The Times featuring Oxford participant Stephanie Everill (subscription required): “The dementia patients who could change lives”