A new AI tool may allow opticians to detect Alzheimer’s through routine eye exams

The development of an AI tool by Scottish researchers could enable high-street opticians to detect early signs of dementia through routine eye examinations.

Project overview; The NeurEYE research team has compiled nearly one million eye scans from across Scotland to develop an AI algorithm that analyzes retinal blood vessels for signs of neurodegenerative diseases.

• The project combines expertise from researchers at the University of Edinburgh and Glasgow Caledonian University
• The database represents the largest collection of eye scans of its kind globally
• The technology could be integrated into routine eye examinations by 2026, with a prototype expected later this year

Scientific basis; The retina serves as a biological indicator of brain health, with its fine blood vessels potentially revealing conditions earlier than other bodily indicators.

• Regular eye examination equipment found in high street opticians can capture detailed retinal photographs
• The AI algorithm assesses blood vessel health in the eye, which can indicate neurodegenerative conditions
• The technology could help prevent disease progression or enable much earlier diagnosis than current methods

Clinical impact; Early detection of dementia through this technology could significantly improve patient outcomes and family preparation.

• Dementia affects one in 14 people over 65 and one in six people over 80
• While there is no cure for dementia, early diagnosis allows for timely treatment and better preparation for patients and families
• Regular eye tests every two years are recommended as they can detect various health conditions beyond eye-specific diseases

Real-world perspective; Personal experiences highlight the potential benefits of earlier detection.

• David Steele, whose mother has Alzheimer’s, notes that earlier diagnosis could have prevented ten years of family struggle
• Ian Cameron, a specialist optometrist, emphasizes that the eye serves as a window to overall body health
• The technology could help distinguish between vision problems caused by eye conditions versus neurological issues

Future implementation; The transition from research to practical application appears promising but measured.

The success of this technology could transform routine eye examinations into powerful diagnostic tools for dementia, though its effectiveness in real-world settings remains to be proven through wider implementation. The project’s rollout strategy, beginning with a prototype and expanding to nationwide deployment, suggests a careful approach to ensuring reliability and practical utility.