South London volunteers needed for LOLIPOP 100K study

A south London research nurse is urging people to take part in an NIHR-supported study that could change their lives for the better.

The London Life Sciences Prospective Population 100K study (LOLIPOP 100K) is a major UK study investigating the mechanisms underlying heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and other major medical problems, focusing on the South Asian community. Researchers are hoping to recruit 100,000 people by December 2024.

Anyone aged 18-85 years old who isn't pregnant or currently ill is eligible to take part in the LOLIPOP 100K study, where they will undergo tests taking approximately 40 to 60 minutes long to check their blood pressure, weight, height, body mass index, etc. Volunteers will receive their test results four to six weeks after their check-up.

Jayshireen Singh, a Research Nurse for the NIHR Clinical Research Network South London, who helps to administer the health checks, said the results could give people important peace of mind. She said:

"I urge people to come forward as these checks can identify problems someone might not be aware of. The health check results can help someone make early lifestyle interventions to improve their health, such as through more exercise, reducing smoking, reducing alcohol intake and improving their diet. Simple changes made early on could save lives in the future by reducing a person's overall risk of having a heart attack, stroke or being diagnosed with another serious condition.

"This study is targeted primarily at South Asians because they are at increased risk of ill health. Even if you are healthy, I would still urge you to come forward for a check-up, as you can help improve researchers' understanding of the risk factors for heart disease, stroke and other diseases.

"It is pretty exciting to work on a study that is aiming to improve our understanding of the causes of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other hidden health problems such as asthma, memory loss and visual impairments, and to be able to use my medical skills for the benefit of others.

"The NIHR Clinical Research Network South London has played its part in helping researchers to meet their recruitment targets. Our clinic in Wimbledon is staffed from 8am to 3.45pm regularly, so it has been a real team effort from primary care and the direct delivery team to help with the delivery of the LOLIPOP 100k study. We have also had great feedback from our patients who are very keen to find out about their health."

You can learn more about the LOLIPOP 100K study on the South Asian Biobank website.