BRACE is committed to funding research that supports earlier diagnosis. Since 2017, the charity has been supporting research into an early Alzheimer's test called 'Fastball.'

A first-of-its-kind test which may diagnose Alzheimer's and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), a condition which can lead to Alzheimer's, earlier than previously possible. A participant wears an EEG cap which measures their brainwaves while they watch flashing images on a screen. The test takes around 2-3 minutes to complete.

Fastball is currently being developed to identify different types of dementia and, is also being developed for possible use by the NHS, and for use in a home environment, away from a medical setting.

Why is early Alzheimer's diagnosis important?

• One in three people living with dementia in England do not have a diagnosis
• Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia
• Alzheimer's begins 10-20 years before noticeable symptoms - this stage is not currently being diagnosed
• The revolutionary Alzheimer's drugs are the most effective in the earlier stages
• Earlier, accurate diagnosis offers researchers the chance to tackle the condition much sooner and hopefully slow down or even stop the condition from progressing - this could mean a much needed cure.