EDoN (Early Detection of Neurodegenerative Diseases), spearheaded by Alzheimer's Research UK, is an ambitious initiative that aims to revolutionize the early detection of diseases like Alzheimer's. By leveraging digital data, EDoN is developing an innovative approach to detect these neurodegenerative diseases years before the onset of dementia symptoms. Currently, dementia is diagnosed when memory loss and other symptoms become apparent, which hampers the effectiveness of intervention.

EDoN's goal is to intervene decades earlier by identifying subtle variations in behaviors controlled by our brains. These variations may serve as vital clues to the presence of diseases like Alzheimer's in their earliest stages. To achieve this, EDoN brings together global experts in data science, digital technology, and neurodegeneration.

By collecting vast amounts of digital data through smartphone apps and wearable devices, EDoN aims to uncover digital data patterns, or "fingerprints," linked to clinical tests such as brain scans. Ultimately, EDoN seeks to develop a digital device capable of detecting these fingerprints in individuals without obvious symptoms of dementia. The impact of EDoN's work is significant.

It could enable doctors to detect the early stages of diseases like Alzheimer's 10-15 years earlier than currently possible. This early detection would increase the likelihood of stopping these diseases from interfering with people's lives, allowing them to stay connected to their world, families, and themselves for longer. In its pursuit of this transformative goal, EDoN collaborates with partners and funders like the Bill Gates Foundation and the Roger Quin Breakthrough Fund.

Together, they aim to accelerate research efforts and drive breakthroughs in understanding, preventing, and treating diseases that cause dementia. By leveraging digital data and cutting-edge technology, EDoN is paving the way for earlier interventions and a brighter future for individuals at risk of neurodegenerative diseases