Abreast of Health: Phase 1 – v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Abreast of Health – Lifestyle and Alcohol Information Needs in Breast Health Services: Phase 1
IRAS ID
222037
Contact name
Julia M. A. Sinclair
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
MR/P016960/1, MRC grant reference
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 31 days
Research summary
The Chief Medical Officers have updated the national alcohol guidelines reflecting new scientific evidence that risks of alcohol on health are dose-dependent, and that there is no ‘safe’ level of alcohol consumption. Public awareness of this recent evidence needs to be raised to all types of alcohol consumers, whether light or heavy drinkers, in order to reduce alcohol intake across the whole population. Evidence shows that people are more receptive to health improvement advice and to make positive changes in their lifestyle when facing significant health events. This has been described as ‘readiness to learn’.\n\nWe propose to explore acceptability and feasibility of an opportunistic alcohol brief intervention (ABI) delivered electronically to women during breast clinics (symptomatic breast clinics or screening mammogram NHSBSP), when women may wish to know what they can do to minimise their risks from alcohol, capitalising on the heightened receptivity provided by the context of breast clinic waiting areas. \n\nWe propose an early-phase study to determine women’s information needs; how tailored and supportive public health messages can be provided; and what tools can help women to develop a into longer-term motivation to reduce alcohol consumption. We will do this using a range of research methods (survey, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups). Patients, clinicians and public health specialists will be involved throughout in the design of the intervention.\n\nThis application is strictly for the clinic survey and piloting work planned as part of the initial three months of the programme. Subject to approval, this application will be followed by two separate applications to conduct (a) focus groups and (b) testing the ensuing prototype and follow-up. These are being submitted at a later stage, as the nature of our research means that data from each research activity will determine the design of every subsequent activity.
REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/NW/0241
Date of REC Opinion
10 May 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion