Viral Hepatitis Research
Hepatitis C is one of the biggest public health problems in Scotland. In May 2008 the Scottish Government Health Department launched Phase II of the Hepatitis C Action Plan for Scotland. The action plan calls for initiatives to increase the numbers of people being tested and treated for hepatitis C. Action 24 calls for surveys to be undertaken to estimate the prevalence of hepatitis C in Scotland's Pakistani population and possibly among those of other South Asian countries.
People of South Asian origin, in particular people of Pakistani origin are the largest ethnic minority group in Glasgow. The prevalence of hepatitis C in South Asia, particularly in Pakistan is higher than in Scotland. People of South Asian origin, especially people of Pakistani origin residing in the UK are known to be at a higher risk of hepatitis C infection and hepatitis C related liver disease than the general UK population
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, in collaboration with Health Protection Scotland, REACH Community Health Project, the West of Scotland Specialist Virology Centre and the Queen Mary School of Medicine, London proposes undertaking a cross-sectional survey of people of Pakistani origin residing in the Glasgow area.
We are inviting BME community to take part in this important public health study. People born in Pakistan and other South Asian countries are at greater risk of being infected with viruses that cause liver diseases such as jaundice (hepatitis). We want to measure the number of people from Pakistan and other South Asian countries living in Glasgow who have these viruses so that treatment can be offered and services developed to help members of the community. Participation is voluntary and all information that is collected during the study will be kept strictly confidential and will be used in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.
We will ask you to give us a small sample of your blood for testing for hepatitis B and C (viral hepatitis). The researcher will prick your finger using a special instrument and will collect a spot of your blood on a card. This will then be sent to the Virus Laboratory in Glasgow for testing. You will be informed about of the result within one month of the test and treatment will be available if the results are positive.
If you are interested in joining or finding out more about any of the new projects or research please call 0141 585 8022
News and Updates
Culturally Sensitive Services
In response to the major health inequalities faced by BME communities living in Glasgow, REACH provides a broad based, integrated health service programme. In partnership with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Primary Care Division, we have developed a Community Health Clinic that offers preventative health promotion information and comprehensive clinical advice to individuals from the BME community. Moreover, REACH’s service delivery is sensitive to issues of ethnicity, race, and religion/faith.
Policy and Research Unit
REACH believes that health planning and legislation should be based on the best available research and evidence. To this end, REACH engages in its own research and policy work in order to influence change with regards to BME Health. In addition to producing community led studies into BME health needs and barriers, REACH
Training and Development Unit
As a central part of our social entrepreneurial strategy, REACH's Training and Development Unit attempts to bridge the gap between BME communities and health service providers. REACH is committed to developing and delivering training solutions to improve health and social care service provision for BME communities in Scotland. Training is available to organisations working for and with BME communities in Scotland within the mainstream, voluntary and private sectors.