Active not recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

naVIGation Invitations Liver surveillANce upTake

This study, called naVIGation, is investigating better ways to help people attend important liver scans for conditions like liver scarring (cirrhosis) or long-term hepatitis B. These scans are crucial for checking for liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC) early, which can greatly improve treatment chances. Currently, many people miss these scans. The study is testing whether sending clear invitations in the post and offering support from a dedicated 'Patient Navigator' can encourage more people to attend. Researchers also want to see if these efforts lead to catching liver cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage compared to the usual care. This could make a big difference for people at risk in the UK.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Sponsor

Imperial College London

Enrolment target

652

Start

27 Feb 2025

Estimated completion

19 Aug 2027

Hepatocellular Carcinoma Liver Cirrhosis Chronic Hep B

What is this study about?

If you have certain liver conditions, such as severe scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) or chronic hepatitis B, you're at a higher risk of developing a type of liver cancer called hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC. Regularly checking your liver with ultrasound scans every six months is a really important way to spot this cancer early. Finding cancer early often means treatments are more effective.

However, many people who should be getting these regular scans don't attend them. This study aims to find better ways to help people get to these important appointments. The researchers are trying out two main approaches: sending clear, helpful invitations by post, and offering support from a 'Patient Navigator'. A Patient Navigator is someone who can help guide you through the healthcare system, answer your questions, and remove any barriers that might make it hard for you to attend your scan.

The main goal is to see if these new approaches can encourage more people to attend their liver scans. They also want to see if more people get diagnosed with liver cancer at an early stage, which is when treatment is usually most successful. This study is important because it could lead to better ways of supporting people with liver conditions in the UK to stay on top of their health.

Key takeaways

This study explores better ways to help people attend liver cancer screening.
It tests new invitations and support from a 'Patient Navigator'.
The goal is to increase attendance at liver scans and find cancer earlier.
You would continue your regular 6-monthly liver scans.
No new treatments or medical procedures are involved.
This research could improve liver cancer care in the UK.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or over. You might be suitable if you have certain liver conditions that put you at risk of liver cancer, and you are eligible for regular liver cancer screening according to UK guidelines. This includes people with liver scarring (cirrhosis) that is not too severe, or people with a high risk from chronic hepatitis B.

There are also some conditions that would mean you can't take part. For example, if you have already been diagnosed with liver cancer, have had a liver transplant, or have liver scarring that is very severe (unless you are on the list for a liver transplant). Also, if you are very frail, this study might not be safe for you.

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 liver scarring (cirrhosis) or high-risk chronic Hepatitis B?
Are you eligible for regular liver cancer screening?
Have you *not* had liver cancer before or a liver transplant?
Is your liver scarring not severe (unless you're waiting for a transplant)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

The study compares different ways of encouraging attendance at liver scans. If you take part, you would be assigned to either receive the usual care (which means your doctor requests your scan and you get an appointment by post), or receive an additional mailed invitation and possibly support from a Patient Navigator. You would continue to have your regular six-monthly liver ultrasound scans as normal. The study would then look at your attendance at these scans and if any liver cancers are found, at what stage they are detected. There are no extra tests or medications involved in this study; it's about how you are invited and supported for your existing scans. The duration of your participation would depend on your regular surveillance schedule.

Potential risks and benefits

The potential benefits of taking part in this study include getting extra support to attend your important liver scans, which could lead to earlier detection of any liver cancer. There are no additional medical risks as the study only looks at how you receive information and support for your existing recommended scans. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Verified postcode
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is HCC?

HCC stands for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. It's the most common type of liver cancer, often linked to long-term liver damage.

Why are regular ultrasound scans important?

They help doctors check your liver regularly for any signs of cancer. Finding cancer early usually means treatments are more successful.

What is a 'Patient Navigator'?

A Patient Navigator is someone who can help you understand your appointments, answer questions, and generally support you in getting your care.

Will I have to take new medicines?

No, this study doesn't involve any new medicines or extra tests. It's about how you are invited and supported for your routine scans.

Can I stop taking part if I change my mind?

Yes, you can choose to stop taking part in the study whenever you want, and your medical care will not be affected.