Randox Announces New Fertility Service

Randox Laboratories has announced it is to expand into the fertility industry.

The medical diagnostics company, which is based in Co Antrim, has said it has created one of the world's most advanced fertility health assessments.

Confirming its move into the field of fertility issues, the firm said the new service will involve both physical and biological assessments for men and women, with a total of 110 tests being carried out. This includes DNA-based protein testing.

In a statement, Dr Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director of Randox, said the results would provide a blueprint of health of the entire body, evaluating its preparedness for conception and pregnancy.

He said: "Around one in six couples in the UK has difficulty conceiving – due to our research and experience, we know that this is not always down to a problem with the sperm, eggs and reproductive organs. Issues in other parts of the body may have a significant impact on fertility, from hormone imbalance, obesity and stress.

"We are using the latest medical and scientific techniques available to assess the whole body, to provide clarity and to help boost fertility. For many couples, we know that very sophisticated treatment, such as IVF is not always needed. Sometimes even a simple change in lifestyle or diet is enough."

The health checks are being launched through Randox’s healthcare division Randox Health, in partnership with UK fertility experts from GCRM Belfast, the Regional Fertility Centre at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast, and the Urology Department at Belfast City Hospital.

Dr Peter McFaul, of GCRM Belfast, explained that the service will provide new investigative options for people thinking of having a baby.

"Combined with our own state of the art facility and advanced treatment options, we believe that we can now bring an unrivalled and complete fertility service to Northern Ireland and the UK, from the first stages of planning a family, through to the treatment of infertility," he said.

The expansion has created 20 jobs within the Randox Health division, in Northern Ireland and London, with GPs, nurse specialists and administrative staff recruited.

(JP/CD)