To mark World Hepatitis Day (28 July 2025), the NIHR School for Primary Care Research (SPCR) is showcasing work focused on tackling health inequalities. This includes research exploring the links between blood-borne virus infections and poor air quality, as well as projects aimed at improving the detection and management of undiagnosed HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C in primary care. Using digital technology, these initiatives support targeted testing to increase identification and enhance care pathways for higher-risk and underserved communities.
One such project, led by Dr Werner Leber and colleagues (SPCR Project 679), is focused on improving the detection and care of undiagnosed HIV, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C in primary care using digital risk-scoring tools. Funded by the SPCR, the study addresses the reality that significant numbers of people in the UK are infected but unaware—particularly in disadvantaged groups.
SPCR is also sharing a case study highlighting the work of Professor Chris Griffiths and Dr Werner Leber, who have led influential cluster randomised trials showing that primary care is an effective setting for infectious disease screening. Working with practices serving disadvantaged migrant communities in East London, they successfully increased detection rates of TB, HIV, and hepatitis B and C through targeted screening programmes. Read more of this case study.