ANSWER AS Pilot Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Addressing the unmet Need of patientS With sevERe Aortic Stenosis – The ANSWER AS Pilot Study
IRAS ID
350340
Contact name
Christopher Cook
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
000000000000000, In process on CT.gov
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 0 days
Research summary
The ANSWER AS study is designed to explore a new way of identifying severe aortic stenosis (sAS) in older adults (over-70 years old).
sAS is a serious heart condition that is under-diagnosed but has well-evidenced, effective treatments in older patients. Up to 40% of sAS is clinically asymptomatic, however multiple randomised control trials have demonstrated that aortic intervention even in the absence of symptoms is associated with better long term outcomes. Hence, an effective screening tool can help identify patients who would benefit from intervention, but may not report any symptoms yet. Opportunistic screening is well received by patients through the Valve for Life charity.
Existing demographic data shows an overlap between eye disease and sAS, with 1-in-3 patients undergoing aortic valve intervention having attended an ophthalmology clinic appointment within the last 2 years. Instead of the usual process of visiting the GP once symptoms develop, this study will use a smart stethoscope to screen asymptomatic patients aged 70 and over who visit an eye clinic. The majority of patients will not have sAS detcted (>95%), and can be reassured. If the device detects signs of sAS, these patients will be referred to the Essex Cardiothoracic Centre for confirmatory testing with an echocardiogram, and possible treatment.
The main goals of the study are to assess the feasibility of using a smart stethoscope in an eye clinic as a practical and effective screening method, and compare time-to-treatment using this new approach versus the current pathway.
The study will take place at an ophthalmology clinic in Orsett Hospital in the UK, where patients will be asked to participate in the screening. The study will also assess how patients feel about being screened for heart problems during an eye check-up. The results will be compared with patients who went through the usual diagnostic process.
REC name
East of England - Essex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/EE/0240
Date of REC Opinion
16 Dec 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion