Researchers from NHS Lothian and Edinburgh University are looking for people to take part in a study which aims to determine the best way of preventing heart attacks.

Currently, doctors use a ‘risk score’ (or ASSIGN score) to help them decide who needs advice and medication to prevent heart attacks. Alternatively, it is possible to screen for heart disease using a specialised scan.

This study aims to compare the current standard of care, using the risk score approach, with a CT scan to look at the blood vessels of the heart.

If you are interested in taking part (and depending on your answers to the 3 questions below), the research team will invite you to an appointment at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh. At the visit, you will have a medical review to see if you are suitable. If you are, you will be randomly assigned to receive either the ‘risk score ASSIGN’ approach or a CT scan of your heart.

If you are in the group assigned to the scan, you will have a further appointment, and this will be at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary.

You will be asked to complete a follow up questionnaire after 6 months and perhaps one further questionnaire at 2 years.

Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

For more information about this study please email [email protected].

REC reference: 19/SS/0080