Guernsey heart condition screening programme shortlisted for national award

Monday, 20 October 2025 07:45

The cholesterol screening service at Queens Road Medical Practice is being recognised for its contribution to preventative medicine.

The clinic for FH screening, based at Queens Road Medical Practice, has been nominated in the National Public Health and Preventive Medicine category at the General Practice Awards 2025.

FH is a common inherited condition that, if untreated, can lead to heart attacks at a young age.

While fewer than 10% of people living with the condition are diagnosed in the UK, Guernsey has already identified 25% of the predicted number of patients with the condition.

In the Queens Road Medical Practice, this figure has risen to 40%.

Through a combination of blood testing, genetic screening, and family follow-ups, 55 islanders have been diagnosed so far, many of these diagnoses being before they showed signs of high cholesterol.

By starting treatment early, the clinic has been able to reduce the risks these patients would otherwise face.

Since its launch in 2018, the FH screening service has provided free testing and support for islanders due to sponsorship and funding.

The recent backing of a private benefactor means this has now been secured for a further three years.