T1D Risk Screening: The ELSA Study

The ELSA study is a screening initiative aimed at identifying children's risk of developing Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). Children aged 3-13 years from the general population will be recruited through various community channels including general practices, schools, and vaccination programmes. The initial screening involves a finger stick dried blood spot (DBS) test to detect islet antibodies. The study's objective is to establish a robust system for identifying at-risk children in the general population, facilitating increased participation in clinical trials to expedite strategies for delaying onset and preventing T1D. By reducing late presentations, associated mortality, and long-term complications, this initiative sets the groundwork for a potential national early surveillance programme for T1D in the general population.