Countess of Chester Hospital research bus to spotlight critical illness study for premature babies

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust's innovative mobile research bus will be at Chester Town Hall this Friday (24th July) as part of efforts to raise awareness of a study investigating why some people are more vulnerable to illnesses than others.

The research will explore which parts of DNA may be associated with an increased risk of serious illness in babies born under 32 weeks, potentially providing valuable insights into the genetic factors behind disease.

By improving understanding of why some individuals are more susceptible to severe illness than others, the study could support the development of new and more effective treatments in the future.

Taking part in the study will involve providing a simple saliva sample, which researchers use to analyse DNA.

Researchers will compare genetic and health information from participants with wider population data to help identify patterns that may explain differences in how people respond to serious illness.

Participation is entirely voluntary, and the research team will be available on the day to answer questions and provide information so that people can make an informed decision about whether the study is right for them.

Although those who take part are unlikely to benefit directly, the knowledge gained through the study could help researchers develop a better understanding of critical illness and support advances in patient care for future generations.

Jude Prince, Research Coordinator at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said:

"Research plays a vital role in helping us better understand why some people become seriously ill and how we can improve care in the future.

“By taking our research bus out into the community, we're able to talk directly to people about the studies taking place across the NHS, answer their questions and explain how research is helping to shape the treatments of tomorrow."

Friday’s visit forms part of the work of the Trust's mobile research bus, one of only four across the North West.

Funded by NHS research partners, including the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast and the Regional Research Delivery Network, the vehicle was launched in 2024 to bring research directly into local communities, making it easier for people to find out about studies taking place across the NHS and helping widen access to research across the region.

It also gives researchers the opportunity to engage with a broader cross-section of the community, helping to ensure studies better reflect the populations they serve.

The vehicle forms part of a wider investment in the Trust's growing research programme, alongside a dedicated three-bed clinical research unit.

The research bus and members of the research team will be outside Chester Town Hall on Friday 24 July from 11am - 2.30pm

Members of the public will have the opportunity to speak to members of the research team, find out more about the study and ask any questions they may have.