Incidental findings protocol

UK Biobank’s participant consent is based on no feedback of results. However, when undertaking such a large-scale imaging study, some potentially serious incidental findings are likely to be detected (defined here as findings that might indicate the possibility of a serious condition which would carry a real prospect of significantly threatening lifespan, or of having a substantial impact on major body functions or quality of life).

It is important that we minimise potential harm to our participants, both from findings that can have serious health implications and mental distress caused by findings that turn out not to be a health concern. As such, we have developed a protocol for identifying and providing feedback to participants and their GPs regarding any potentially serious incidental findings.

More information can be found in the below articles:

• Impact of detecting incidental findings during imaging
• Factors associated with incidental findings