The NIHR Bristol Evidence Synthesis for Screening (BESS) Group is a team of researchers, experts in screening, clinicians and public contributors who work on evidence synthesis projects relating to evaluation of screening programmes.
We aim to identify all relevant information on specific topics related to screening. We combine and summarise the findings to show where there is useful evidence or important gaps. Our reports help the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) make recommendations about screening programmes to ministers and the NHS.
Our expertise
The BESS Group, co led by Professor Penny Whiting and Professor Hayley Jones, is an internationally recognised team of experts in evidence synthesis methodology and cost-effectiveness modelling. Our team also includes specific expertise in screening delivery and evaluation, clinical expertise and public contributors.
The BESS Group is funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Evidence Synthesis Programme. We are part of the Bristol Evidence synthesis, Appraisal and Modelling (BEAM) Centre, within Population Health Sciences in Bristol Medical School at the University of Bristol.
Public involvement
We are committed to meaningful Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE). Our Research Oversight Group includes public contributors who help shape our work.