UK healthcare professionals receive new training to detect early MND signs

A new initiative called ‘RACE to Diagnose’ is providing targeted training to dentists, GPs, and other healthcare professionals in the UK to help identify early signs of motor neurone disease (MND). The program is the first of its kind in the country and was launched by the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, a charity established by the late Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir.

Because MND is difficult to identify in its early stages and lacks a single conclusive test, patients often move through various parts of the healthcare system before seeing a specialist. The training aims to provide practical guidance on recognizing symptoms such as unexplained muscle weakness, wasting, or changes in speech and swallowing.

By enabling earlier diagnosis, the program seeks to improve patient outcomes by allowing for earlier access to emerging treatments. It also instructs clinicians on how to manage urgent referrals and communicate with patients without causing unnecessary alarm, providing families more time to access support and prepare for the future.