CompletedObservational

Improving the assessment of overweight and obesity in people living with HIV and/or chronic hepatitis B

This study aims to find better ways to understand body fat and muscle in people living with HIV or long-term hepatitis B. These individuals can be at higher risk for health issues like heart problems, diabetes, and liver damage, partly due to how fat is spread in their bodies. Standard health checks like BMI don't always give a full picture of fat storage, especially the fat deep inside that can be more harmful. Researchers are testing three different measurement tools: a body fat analyser, a 3D body scanner, and a visual body shape scale. The goal is to see if these tools are comfortable and useful for patients. This could lead to better ways for doctors to assess and support people with HIV or hepatitis B in the future.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

University College London

Enrolment target

100

Start

27 Sep 2025

Estimated completion

30 Apr 2026

People living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and/or chronic Hepatitis B Virus (HBV)

What is this study about?

Many people living with HIV and/or long-term hepatitis B can face a higher chance of developing certain health problems. These include conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and liver issues. This risk can be linked to how fat and muscle are distributed in their bodies, an effect that might be influenced by the viruses themselves and some medications.

Currently, the usual tools doctors use, like Body Mass Index (BMI), don't always show the full story of where fat is stored. For example, fat stored deep inside the body, wrapped around organs, can be more harmful than fat found just under the skin. This means we need better ways to accurately measure and understand a person's body makeup, or 'body composition,' especially for those with HIV and/or hepatitis B.

This study wants to test three different ways to measure body composition: a small device called a Bioelectrical Impedance Analyser (BIA), a 3D body scanner, and a simple picture-based scale called the Stunkard Figure Rating Scale. The main aim is to find out if these tools are comfortable and easy for people with HIV and/or hepatitis B to use, and if they provide helpful information. Ultimately, the hope is that these better tools could be used more often in clinics to help doctors give the best possible care.

Key takeaways

The study aims to find better ways to measure body fat and muscle in people with HIV or hepatitis B.
It tests three non-invasive tools: a body fat analyser, a 3D body scanner, and a visual body shape scale.
Your participation could help improve future care for people with these conditions, though there's no direct personal medical benefit.
The study involves one 2-hour visit to the Mortimer Market Centre in London.
You'll receive a voucher as a thank you for your time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. You can join if you are living with HIV and your viral load (the amount of virus in your body) is stable and very low, or if you have long-term hepatitis B, or both conditions.

There are a few reasons why you might not be able to take part. For your safety, if you have certain medical devices in your body, like a pacemaker, or if you use a wheelchair, you won't be able to participate. Also, if you’ve recently been treated for hepatitis C (within the last 6 months) or are currently using weight-loss injections, you wouldn't be eligible. This is to make sure the results are clear and for technical reasons with the equipment.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have HIV with a stable, undetectable viral load and/or long-term hepatitis B?
Do you NOT have a pacemaker or similar electrical medical device?
Do you NOT use a wheelchair?
Have you NOT recently (within 6 months) had hepatitis C treatment or taken weight-loss injections?
Are you able to stand for at least 30 seconds without help?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll need to visit the Mortimer Market Centre in London just once. This single visit will take about 2 hours of your time. During this appointment, the research team will measure your height, weight, blood pressure, and body shape. You'll also be asked to give a blood sample after not eating for a while, which will be checked for cholesterol and blood sugar levels. You'll do a few simple physical tests, like checking your hand grip and balance. Then, you'll try out the three body measurement tools: the BIA, the 3D scanner, and the body shape scale. Finally, you'll fill out a short anonymous questionnaire to share what you thought about using each of these tools. A small number of participants (20 people) might also be asked if they'd like to have a 30-minute chat, either in person or over the phone, to talk more about their experiences. As a thank you for your time, you'll receive a £20 voucher, with an extra £15 if you take part in the interview. All your information will be kept private.

Potential risks and benefits

There isn't a direct health benefit for you personally by taking part in this study. However, the information gathered could be very helpful for improving how body shape and health risks are assessed and managed for other people living with HIV and/or hepatitis B in the future. You might also gain some insights into your own body shape and certain health factors. The tests involved are generally safe and don't involve any needles or cuts. While talking about weight or body shape can sometimes feel uncomfortable, the research team is trained to be supportive and understanding. If you feel upset at any point, they can provide information about where to get further help. Remember, you can choose to stop participating in the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Mortimer Market Centre
Approximate
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is 'body composition'?

Body composition refers to what your body is made of, like how much fat, muscle, and bone you have. It's different from just your weight.

Why can't I join if I have a pacemaker?

Some of the tools, like the Bioelectrical Impedance Analyser (BIA), use small electrical currents that could interfere with medical devices like pacemakers, so for safety, you can't take part.

Will I get my test results?

The study aims to understand how useful the tools are, rather than giving individual results for immediate medical care. However, you might gain some insights during the process.

Is my information kept private?

Yes, all the information you provide will be made anonymous and handled with strict confidentiality to protect your privacy.

Do I have to do all the tests?

You will be asked to complete all the study activities during your visit. If you are invited to an interview, that is optional.

How to find out more

Florence Bascombe

f.bascombe@ucl.ac.uk +44 7554411752 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.