Liver health screening for Mongolian people in London
This study is exploring liver health among Mongolian adults living in London. Researchers want to understand how common certain liver conditions are, such as viral hepatitis and a type of fatty liver disease called MASLD. Mongolia has high rates of viral hepatitis, which can lead to serious liver problems, and MASLD is also common globally. The study involves community health checks, including simple tests like blood pressure and liver scans. It also takes blood samples and asks questions about health to find out what helps or stops people from getting tested and treated. If any health issues are found, the study team will help connect participants to NHS services. This research aims to improve liver health awareness and care for the Mongolian community in London.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study is all about understanding and improving liver health for Mongolian adults living in London. In Mongolia, there are a lot of cases of chronic viral hepatitis, which can be serious and sometimes lead to liver scarring or even liver cancer. There's also another common liver condition worldwide called MASLD (which used to be known as fatty liver disease). This condition is often linked to things like diabetes and being overweight. The research team wants to find out how common these liver conditions are within the Mongolian community in London.
The main goals of the study are to see how many people have these liver problems, to learn more about the biological reasons they might develop, and to understand what makes it easier or harder for people to get tested and access healthcare. To do this, the study involves screening events in the community, laboratory research with samples, and interviews with some participants about their experiences. All of this information will help improve future health services.
Ultimately, this research aims to make sure that Mongolian people in London have better access to information about their liver health and can get any necessary medical care quickly and easily. By understanding the specific needs of the community, the study hopes to help develop better ways to prevent and manage liver conditions.
Key takeaways
- Find out about your liver health for free.
- Help improve healthcare for the Mongolian community.
- A simple and safe screening process.
- Get connected to NHS care if a health issue is found.
- Your information and samples are kept private.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older.
Importantly, you must also identify yourself as a member of the Mongolian community in London.
Anyone who isn't able to understand and agree to take part (give informed consent) won't be able to join the study.
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 an adult (18 years or older)?
- Do you identify as a member of the Mongolian community?
- Do you live in London?
- Can you understand and agree to take part in the study?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be invited to a community screening event in London. At this event, you'll first learn more about liver health in either English or Mongolian, and you'll be asked to give your permission (consent) before starting anything.
You'll fill out a questionnaire about your health and medical history, and have some simple checks like blood pressure, height, weight, and waist measurements. There will be quick finger-prick tests for hepatitis B and C, HIV, and syphilis. You'll also have a special scan called a FibroScan, which painlessly checks for liver scarring and fat. A small blood sample will be taken to confirm results and check for conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol. Some of these samples will be stored for future research to help scientists understand liver disease better.
Finally, a small number of people might be asked if they'd like to have a private chat (one-to-one interview) to share their thoughts and experiences about health screening and healthcare. The whole process at the screening event is designed to be straightforward and clear.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyLondon, England
Common questions
What is viral hepatitis?
Viral hepatitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the liver. It can be serious and may lead to long-term liver problems if not treated.
What is MASLD?
MASLD stands for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease. It's a type of fatty liver disease often linked to conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity.
What is a FibroScan?
A FibroScan is a quick, painless test that uses sound waves to check how stiff your liver is (which can show scarring) and how much fat is in it.
Will I get my test results?
Yes, you will learn more about your liver health. If any health concerns are found, the study team will help you access NHS services for follow-up care.
Where does the study take place?
Screening events will be held in various community locations across London. The study is run by the Francis Crick Institute and UCLH NHS Trust.
How to find out more
Emily Martyn
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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