Improving the detection of active TB in A&E departments (ACE Study)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Improving the detection of active tuberculosis (Tb) in accident and emergency (A&E) departments and evaluation of health protection service interventions against tuberculosis (The ACE Study).
IRAS ID
135564
Contact name
Ibrahim Abubakar
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Public Health England
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 30 days
Research summary
This proposal is focused upon early diagnosis, referral and treatment of active tuberculosis, which has two key components: 1) ensuring optimal outcome for individuals; 2) contributing to disease control in public health terms by preventing further spread.
A&E Departments are an important point of testing and referral for the client group that constitute those at greatest risk, as for many this will be their only interaction with the health service. Currently, A&E Departments contribute about 20% of those diagnosed with TB. The majority of these individuals are most likely to have presented with symptoms indicative of disease, compared to those attending for other reasons who would have been unlikely to have been tested or referred.
This study will seek to evaluate specific measures currently being undertaken by Public Health England and the NHS to control TB as well as investigate whether case finding for active TB in A&E departments would improve TB control. The economic impact of these interventions will be evaluated, providing a measure of its value for money.
REC name
London - Stanmore Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/2160
Date of REC Opinion
4 Mar 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion