VITASCOPE
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Evaluation of the acceptability and usability of a point-of-care in-vitro diagnostic micro-sampling device for micronutrient measurement (VITASCOPE: VITAmin and micronutrient testing: Acceptability and SCOPE of Point-of-care device)
IRAS ID
339283
Contact name
Emma webb
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 12 days
Research summary
Childhood obesity is a global health crisis with 1.2 million children in England severely obese, predisposing them to multiple health risks which decrease lifespan and compromise health. Children suffering from obesity experience a state of paradoxical malnutrition; despite excessive calorie intake they have high rates of micronutrient deficiencies rates due to consumption of energy dense, nutrient poor diets. Around 70-80% of obese children are Vitamin D deficient, 10% have low B12 concentrations and 50% have folic acid deficiency.
Currently screening for micronutrient deficiencies does not form a routine part of clinical care at all medical centres because they require a large volume of blood and are expensive to perform. We are proposing a prototype point-of-care in-vitro diagnostic test which allows at-home/primary care testing of micronutrient levels, using an integrated finger-prick and minimal amount of blood. This device should be simple to use, with just one push of a button. The results are analysed using a phone app for clear decision-making, with data uploaded to healthcare providers automatically.This study aims to ask service users (young people and their families) for their views on the usability and acceptability of the device prior to developing the product further. By mapping pathways and integrating point of care testing where patients are currently not being screened we aim to improve clinical outcomes for children and young people with obesity.
REC name
London - Brighton & Sussex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/LO/0281
Date of REC Opinion
16 Apr 2024
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion