Understanding why some patients with cirrhosis receive less screening for liver cancer than others

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance Among Patients with Cirrhosis Across Five Safety Net Organizations

NIH-funded research Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research · NIH-10982501

This study looks at why some people with liver cirrhosis, especially from minority and underserved groups, aren't getting screened for liver cancer as often as they should, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and aims to find ways to make it easier for everyone to get the care they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPalo Alto Veterans Instit for Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Palo Alto, United States)
Project IDNIH-10982501 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the reasons behind the disparities in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) screening among patients with cirrhosis, focusing on ethnic minorities and underserved populations. It aims to analyze how factors related to patients, healthcare providers, and the healthcare system contribute to these disparities, especially in the context of disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. By examining screening rates before, during, and after the pandemic, the study seeks to identify barriers and facilitators to timely cancer screening. The findings could help improve access to care and treatment options for affected populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients with cirrhosis, particularly those from ethnic minority backgrounds or underserved communities.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cirrhosis or those who are not part of ethnic minority or underserved populations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved screening rates for liver cancer among underserved populations, enhancing early detection and treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has highlighted disparities in cancer screening among various populations, suggesting that addressing these issues could lead to significant improvements in healthcare access and outcomes.

Where this research is happening

Palo Alto, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions alcohol use disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.