‘Take part in research to improve your health,’ says Leicester resident
A Leicester resident has become the first person in the East Midlands to take part in an exciting new research study.
The LOLIPOP 100k study is investigating the mechanisms of underlying heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and other major medical problems, with a particular focus on the South Asian community.
The study in Leicester is being supported by the Clinical Research Network (CRN) East Midlands, part of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
Manisha Rayaral took part in the study at the Merlyn Vaz Health and Social Care Centre, undertaking a health check including blood pressure, measurements and providing a blood sample. Participants are subsequently provided with a health check report based on the tests.
“It felt really good to be involved in research which could help generate answers about why chronic health problems develop, particularly in the South Asian community,” Manisha explains. Taking part in the study will help me make changes in my life to improve my health and wellbeing.”
The study aims to recruit 100,000 volunteers in order to identify the environmental and genetic factors that contribute to underlying conditions, and to help develop new tools to identify people at increased risk of ill-health.
Manisha is keen to encourage more local residents to follow her lead and participate in the study. “The tests you’ll undergo will help you reflect on your health and give you information to take positive steps and actions such as healthier eating, and better exercise and sleeping habits,” she explains.
“You will not only be helping researchers, but you will also benefit from taking part.”
Find out more about the study at: https://www.sabiobank.org/
