Pupils at a Broughton primary school are taking part in diabetes screening research to identify those at higher risk of type 1 diabetes.
River View primary is the first school in the North West to welcome this research, offering children aged three to 13 a simple finger-stick blood test to find out their risk of developing type one diabetes.
The initiative means treatment can be started sooner if children are found to be at risk.
Teacher Amber Jones, who is championing the study, said: “As a person living with type one diabetes, I am deeply moved to be part of such groundbreaking research.
“Diagnosed at 20, my life was altered in significant ways.
“If this study had been available before I was diagnosed, it would have equipped me to navigate crucial lifestyle adjustments such as mastering technology, carbohydrate counting, and understanding insulin ratios – among the many other adjustments that come with a T1D diagnosis.”
She continued: “While this condition is lifelong, it can be managed effectively with the right care, support, and knowledge.
“This research empowers children and their parents, giving them the tools they need for a strong start. I’m incredibly passionate about this cause and grateful to the research team for including me in this vital work.”
Headteacher Daniel Gauld said: “We are delighted to be working with Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust on this project.
“The take up is small at this stage but we believe that early diagnosis could make such a difference to our children.
“It’s all thanks to our teacher Miss Jones, who put us in touch with this exciting project. It’s lovely that her first-hand experience has increased our awareness and if our children and parents can benefit this will be great.”
The research team has attended dance classes, as well as visiting the homes of children with additional needs to allow them to take part.
Vikki O’Loughlin, the NCA assistant director of nursing for research and innovation, said: “Diabetes is a serious condition that has lifelong impacts on a person’s health.
“This research helps families find out if their child is at risk of developing type 1 diabetes. The test is very quick and easy and if it does turn out to be positive, treatment can be started sooner.”
She added: “Most parents will be reassured to know that their child doesn’t have these antibodies but for around one in 100 whose child tests positive, they will need to have a further blood test at hospital.
“If that confirms there is a risk of developing type 1 diabetes, then families will be invited to an education session to help them understand what that will mean for their child.”
The study is being funded by Diabetes UK and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Further screenings are set to take place at more schools and more information can be found here.
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