DEMENTIA diagnosis in Bolton has been ranked top in the North West, according to new figures from the Department of Health.

Bolton GPs and NHS Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) have welcomed the results and say it is down to initiatives introduced in the past year which identified 234 new dementia patients.

And with the number of dementia sufferers in Bolton set to rise from 2,896 to an estimated 37,231 in 2021, early diagnosis is key, according to doctors.

Dr Stephen Liversedge, clinical director for primary care at the CCG said: “I am pleased to see that our hard work in Bolton is paying off.

“Dementia is a top priority for the CCG. An increase in this condition is one of the most significant changes that will result from an ageing population, both in numbers and the impact on services.

“We know many older people in Bolton are affected by dementia and the effects can be very debilitating. Most types of dementia can’t be cured but, if it is detected early, there are ways to slow it down and maintain mental function.

“It will always be difficult news, but an early diagnosis can help people to get the right treatment and support and allow those close to them to plan for the future.”

Bolton’s Memory Assessment Service, funded by the CCG, is run by Manchester West Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust where potential dementia patients are referred by their GP.

The service is delivered by a consultant psychiatrist, psychologists, mental health nurses, occupational therapists, carer support workers and a dementia adviser.