The aetiology of eating disorders (EDs) is complex, involving an interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Children at familial high risk (FHR) for EDs demonstrate increased risk of developing EDs themselves compared with children born to parents without EDs, though the majority remain unaffected. The BLOOM study is an FHR study that aims to identify biological, neurocognitive and psychosocial risk and protective pathways to EDs. Results of this study will help identify trait markers of EDs, inform targeted preventive intervention strategies and clarify how to mitigate genetic risk of EDs.

This prospective cohort study will enrol 510 children aged 8–10 years, including 360 at FHR for developing EDs (comprising 120 children each from mothers with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge ED) and 150 children not at FHR. Participants will be recruited over 2 years and followed up every 2 years. Data collection will include dual X-ray absorptiometry scans to evaluate body composition, saliva samples for genotyping, neurocognitive testing, self and parent-reported questionnaires and semistructured diagnostic interviews of psychopathology and well-being. Optional data collection will include fasting blood samples, stool samples and brain MRI scans. Mothers and secondary caregivers will complete questionnaires regarding family functioning and their mental health.

The study has been approved by the Danish Data Protection Agency (p-2023-14826) and the Regional Ethics Committee of Health Research of the Capital Region of Denmark (H-23043100). Written consent will be obtained from all participants. Results will be disseminated at scientific conferences, in peer-reviewed publications, PhD dissertations and to relevant stakeholders.

To explore patients’ experiences and preferences of self-testing using white cell count point-of-care test (POCT) and C reactive protein POCT during antibiotic treatment at home.

A University Hospital in the Region of Zealand (DK).

10 inpatients treated with antibiotics who were discharged from hospital to continue antibiotic treatment at home. They were trained in the hospital supervised by research personnel before self-testing at home.

An explorative qualitative study using thematic analysis.

The participants considered the self-testing beneficial, mainly due to not having to travel to get a blood test drawn, the rapid test time and the ability to closely monitor their treatment. The participants perceived that self-testing at home would make them feel more in control of their disease and would give them the ability to live a more normal life. Moreover, self-testing at home showed to be feasible for some patients but with barriers to overcome, such as the ability to use technology and cognitive challenges.

Our study showed that self-testing at home was feasible for some patients, provided they received thorough training at the hospital ensuring that participants were able to conduct the self-testing and use the smartphone technology before transitioning to their home. This could help reduce barriers to home self-testing by highlighting its benefits and emphasising the need for adequate patient guidance and support.