RecruitingObservational

Introducing a home-based genomic risk test to screening pathways for abdominal aortic aneurysms

This study wants to hear from men aged 60 to 70 about their thoughts on a new way to check for a heart condition called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). The current NHS screening programme uses an ultrasound scan for men aged 65. This study is exploring adding a simple home-based spit test to see if someone has a higher genetic risk of developing an AAA. Researchers will interview healthy volunteers to understand if they would be happy with including genetic tests in AAA screening and how best to tell people about their personal risk. Their feedback will help create better information for a more personalised screening approach in the future. This could encourage those most at risk to attend screening.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Leicester

Enrolment target

Start

24 Feb 2026

Estimated completion

01 Oct 2026

Abdominal aortic aneurysm population screening

What is this study about?

The NHS currently offers screening for a condition called an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) to men aged 65. An AAA is a swelling of the main blood vessel that runs from your heart through your tummy. If it gets too big, it can be very dangerous. The screening uses an ultrasound scan, which is similar to the scans used during pregnancy.

We know that some people are more likely to develop an AAA because of their genes – the instructions passed down in families. This study wants to explore if adding a simple home-based genetic test (like a spit test) could help identify men who might be at a higher risk of developing an AAA sooner. If introduced, this genetic test could become part of the NHS AAA screening programme.

The main goal of this study is to talk to men aged 60 to 70 to get their opinions on this idea. What do they think about having a genetic test at home? How would they want to be told if they had a higher genetic risk? Their feedback is really important and will help guide how the NHS might offer more personalised AAA screening in the future. Hopefully, this could encourage more people who are at higher risk to get screened.

Key takeaways

This study is about improving how men are screened for AAA.
It explores adding a simple home genetic test to identify higher risks.
Researchers want to hear from men aged 60-70 about their opinions.
Participation involves a 45-60 minute online or in-person interview.
Your feedback will help shape future NHS screening communication.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for healthy men to take part. You must be between 60 and 70 years old. It's important that you can understand and speak English well enough to take part in an interview.

You won't be able to join if you struggle with speaking or understanding English.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a man?
Are you between 60 and 70 years old?
Are you generally healthy?
Can you speak and understand English clearly?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll have a phone call first to make sure the study is a good fit for you and to answer any questions you might have. Then, you'll be invited to a one-off interview, which will last about 45 to 60 minutes.

These interviews are usually done online using Microsoft Teams, but if you prefer, you can have an in-person interview at the University of Leicester. If you go to Leicester, your travel and parking costs will be covered if you provide receipts.

There's also an optional second stage where you could help design written materials to explain screening invitations to the public. You can say if you're interested in this during your first interview, but there's no pressure to commit.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study won't directly benefit you, but your input will help shape how AAA screening is offered to others in the future, potentially encouraging more people at risk to get screened. There are no medical risks or side effects involved. However, you should be aware that the phone call and the 45-60 minute interview will take up some of your time. You are free to withdraw from the study at any point without giving a reason.

Locations (5)

University of Leicester
Approximate
Leicester, England
Ratby Surgery
City only
Leicester, England
Heath Lane Surgery
City only
Leicester, England
Barwell & Hollycroft Medical Centres
City only
Leicester, England
East Leicester Medical Practice
Approximate
Leicester, England

Common questions

What is an AAA?

An AAA is a swelling of the main blood vessel (aorta) in your tummy. If it gets too big, it can be very serious.

What is a home-based genomic risk test?

It's a simple test, like a spit test, done at home, to check your genes for a higher risk of certain conditions.

Do I have to go to Leicester for the interview?

No, most interviews are online via Microsoft Teams, but you can choose to go to the University of Leicester if you prefer, and your travel costs will be covered.

Will I get my own genetic test results?

This study is about getting your opinions on genetic testing, not about giving you individual results from a test.

Who is paying for this study?

The study is funded by The Wellcome Trust, a well-known charity that supports health research.

How to find out more

Chloe Norman

cgn9@leicester.ac.uk +44 (0)7722192848 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.