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GENETIC SCREENING URGENTLY NEEDED
Monday 29 June 2009
A leading medical charity has called on Health Trusts to appoint, as a matter of urgency, a nurse to screen family members for inherited high blood cholesterol.
GENETIC SCREENING URGENTLY NEEDED
A leading medical charity has called on Health Trusts to appoint, as a matter of urgency, a nurse to screen family members for inherited high blood cholesterol.
Andrew Dougal, Chief Executive of NI Chest Heat & Stroke said, "When an individual is diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolaemia it is essential that other family members should be screened as a matter of urgency."
"This can best be done with the employment of a nurse who will visit family members and explain that the individuals may be at very high risk of heart attack and may be in danger of sudden cardiac death."
"It is essential that all Trusts in Northern Ireland follow the guidance on screening for relatives outlined by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)."
"It is regrettable that we fail to diagnose more than 80% of familial hypercholesterolaemia in the UK. The NI Chest Heart & Stroke has funded, over a period of time, research at Belfast City Hospital into this genetic condition. It is essential that this research leads to action by each of the Health Trusts. I am pleased to say that the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust has provided funds. This has enabled the appointment of a nurse to follow up families in the Belfast Trust area."
"It is essential that the other 4 Trusts follow suit. I know that in particular a large number of families has been identified in the Southern area. It would be criminal if other family members were not contacted and screened."
"Delay in screening can bring about untimely deaths. There could be as many as 3,000 people in Northern Ireland who are unaware that they are at risk of this silent killer. If they receive proper treatment, they could have a normal life expectancy."
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