HepFree 2
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Chronic Viral Hepatitis in First and Second Generation Immigrants from ’At Risk’ Countries: a study to assess the impact of identifying, screening and treating immigrants with viral hepatitis in an area of low prevalence. REC Ref: 13 LO 0406’
IRAS ID
121164
Contact name
Graham R Foster
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen Mary University of London, Joint Research Management Office
Research summary
Chronic viral hepatitis (persistent infection with hepatitis B and C) causes an asymptomatic disease which can lead to cirrohsis, liver disease as well as death in a large proportion of those infected. Within the UK,the number of deaths from liver disease is increasing as it has one of the lowest rates of therapy within Europe. Chronic viral hepatitis is known to be more common in people that were born outside of the UK. It has been shown that certain minorities are more likely to have it. If we find and identify these patients, we can treat them and before they develop serious liver disease. The main objective of the study is to assess if it feasible and cost effective to test known immigrants from certain countries (as defined by the WHO guidelines of 2 to 8% HBV prevalence) for chronic viral hepatitis. This research will help us decide what is the best approach to identify and screen these participants in a low prevalence area, as well as determine their level of engagement.
REC name
London - Fulham Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/LO/0406
Date of REC Opinion
30 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion