Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have found a simple language test could help diagnose brain tumours earlier.
The 'Noah's Ark' test, which was devised at the university, involves patients naming as many animals as they can in 60 seconds.
According to medical charity Brain Tumour Research, the task may help GPs identify patients with common symptoms such as headaches who are most likely to have a brain tumour.
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A study funded by The Brain Tumour Charity consisting of 270 participants found that people with brain tumours scored significantly lower on the test than those who had headaches but no tumours.
The 'Noah's Ark' task is already used to help assess cognitive function of patients with neurological conditions, but scientists have said that the new study marks the first time that it has been used to help diagnose tumours faster.
According to The Brain Tumour Charity, a score of 14 or more animals in one minute was found to differentiate ‘good’ from ‘poor’ performance.
Director of Research, Policy and Innovation at Brain Tumour Research Dr Karen Noble said: “This is a welcome development on the route to earlier brain tumour diagnosis.
"However to deliver real patient benefit, an earlier diagnosis must then be supported by access to treatment options, therapeutic choices and where possible placement on clinical trials.
"For this to happen there needs to be investment in the early-stage science that begins the translational pipeline and underpins all clinical innovation.
"Funding and campaigning to secure this investment is, and will remain, the bedrock of Brain Tumour Research.”
