Member Article

Researchers appeal from the heart

Researchers at Newcastle University are calling for volunteers for a project on diet and heart health that will also raise money for local coronary patient support. Volunteers on the 16-week study are asked to come in for six brief visits to the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle to monitor their heart health after changing their eating habits.

Volunteers are reimbursed £90 for their time, but many kind-hearted volunteers have already chosen to donate this money to local heart charities, raising over £500. All money collected will go to the Coronary Care Unit at the RVI. Participants would start on the study at the end of January or the start of February.

One of the researchers, Dr Iain Brownlee, of Newcastle University’s School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, said: “This is an ideal way for people to help two worthy causes at the same time. “While the current study aims to help prevent heart complaints through diet, it is also vital that heart patients and their families in the area receive the care and support that the Coronary Care Unit provides.”

Currently, the North East has the highest prevalence of heart disease in England, along with one of the highest incidences of coronary heart disease deaths in Europe. This is mirrored by some of the most unhealthy dietary habits in the UK.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .