Trial finds 107 undiagnosed high cholesterol cases

A four-month health pilot found 107 undiagnosed cases of high cholesterol and 65 of islanders with high blood pressure.

Public health services in partnership with Guernsey Chest and Heart LBG said the trial, which ran between September and December 2025, tested 265 islanders across 38 clinics in community and workplace settings.

The States of Guernsey said the project aimed to help people identify key risk factors of cardiovascular disease so they could take action before serious illness developed.

Caroline Ogier, CEO at Guernsey Chest and Heart LBG, said making checks outside of health facilities reached people that might otherwise have not been screened.

She said: "People followed up with their GP, some started treatment, and many made positive changes to their lifestyle.

"That's exactly what prevention is about - giving people the information, confidence and support to take control of their health before cardiovascular disease develops."

In January, the states highlighted the importance of early detection in a health report, finding 5,000 people needed help to lower their risk of cardiovascular risk disease over the next five to 10 years.

Dr Nicola Brink, Director of Public Health, said: "If identified early, such risk factors for cardiovascular disease can be reduced or treated with lifestyle changes and medications leading to reduced future demand for more complex disease.

"Reducing cardiovascular risk is essential to improving islanders' long-term health and this programme reflects the government's... commitment to prevention and early intervention."

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