Take part in the ELSA Study
Finding those at risk of type 1 diabetes, before symptoms appear
If your child is between 3 and 13 years old, they can take part in the ELSA Study with a quick and simple finger-prick blood test which could identify if they are at risk of developing type 1 diabetes in the future.
Check the dates and locations below to see when screenings will be near you and take part in this important research that could help protect children's health.
About the ELSA Study
The ELSA study (Early Surveillance for Autoimmune diabetes) into childhood screening for type 1 diabetes is aiming to identify children at high risk of developing type 1 diabetes before symptoms appear.
It is the UK’s largest screening programme for type 1 diabetes in children; the sooner we screen, the sooner we can intervene - and that could change a child’s future.
How the study works and what it aims to do
A simple finger-prick blood test allows us to look for specific autoantibodies - early markers that the immune system is attacking the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
By identifying these markers early, the study aims to:
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Spot type 1 diabetes before symptoms develop
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Reduce the risk of children becoming seriously unwell or need emergency hospital care
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Those at high risk can be closely monitored for changes in antibodies (protein markers) and glucose levels over time
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We can start treatment at the right moment, improving outcomes
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Children may also be eligible to join clinical trials testing new treatments that aim to delay or prevent the start of type 1 diabetes
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Make sure families receive the information and support they need
To find out more about the study, please visit the ELSA website.
Upcoming screening dates and locations
Take part by meeting the team at one of the screening locations listed
We'd love to see you at one of the screening sessions we have coming up across Hampshire, and if you'd like to complete the consent and eligibility form beforehand it will speed up the process of taking part.