MORE than 1,000 people in the district could be living with dementia but without an official diagnosis, a new NHS report has revealed.

The diagnosis deficit showed up in NHS Digital figures out this week which highlighted Bradford as having the highest diagnosis rate anywhere in Yorkshire and the Humber.

Despite the numbers of people estimated to have the neurological condition – which includes Alzheimers – the rates of dementia diagnosis across Bradford District and Craven are well above the national average.

Statistics, looking at people aged over 65 living across Bradford and the Airedale, Craven and Wharfedale areas, showed there were 4,850 diagnosed dementia cases but there could be as many as 5,994.

Dr Sara Humphreys, GP and clinical speciality lead for older people at NHS Bradford District and Craven Clinical Commissioning Groups, said they were working hard to get people diagnosed and cut waiting times between memory clinics, diagnosis and getting the care needed.

“The rates of dementia diagnosis in Bradford District and Craven are well above the national average and the Bradford local authority area has the highest diagnosis rate anywhere in Yorkshire and the Humber,” she said.

“We continue to see increasing numbers of people diagnosed and are working with our partners in the NHS, local councils and voluntary and community organisations to identify those who are not currently diagnosed.

“We have specialist services that identify and diagnose people appropriately and provide support following that diagnosis; both to the person with dementia and their family and carers. Patients continue to receive help and support as and when their needs change.

“We will continue to maintain the high standards of dementia diagnosis and to reduce the waiting time between referral to a memory clinic and diagnosis of dementia and improve coordination of care to ensure individuals get the care they need across Bradford District and Craven.”

Data from the district’s three clinical commissioning groups was part of an England-wide report showing recorded numbers of recorded dementia cases as from December 31 last year and also the number of suspected cases yet to be diagnosed.