Good Morning Britain (GMB) fans have said it's "about time" as Dr Amir Khanwas invited onto Wednesday's show to highlight an "important moment". The full-time NHS doctor regularly appears on ITV day-time programmes to discuss medical issues, and he joined Charlotte Hawkins today to discuss new tests that could be "life-changing" for some.
His appearance comes as it was announced that UK patients will trial a major new blood test for Alzheimer's disease. Appearing live on GMB via video link Dr Amir said: "This is an important moment in dementia care.
"For the first time, patients across the UK are trialling a blood test for Alzheimer's disease. The test checks for a protein which has been linked to changes in the brain of those living with Alzheimer's disease.
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"Up until now we relied on PET scans and lumbar punctures for a diagnosis, but they are expensive, they are invasive, and they're not accessible to everyone. The trial will focus on over 1,000 people across the UK from different backgrounds and it will look at whether this test offered earlier in the disease will pick up a diagnosis, improve accuracy and guide treatment."
If the test is found to work, Dr Amir said, it can be rolled out across the NHS within a few years, something he said is vital. "I've seen too many families wait too long for a diagnosis. If this does work it could be life-changing."
Reacting to the show on X, formerly Twitter, one viewer said: "That’s proper news! If it means getting a clearer picture sooner, then let’s hope it’s as successful as they say. Everyone deserves a fair chance at understanding what’s going on with their health."
A second said: "About time. My dad has dementia and it's horrible" and a third added: "Any progress on combating this disease is great news. The sooner we can treat it, the better."
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