Using smartphones to improve Hepatitis C diagnostics and reduce health disparities
A smartphone-enabled point of care HCV Ag diagnostics to reduce HCV-related health disparities
This study is working on a smartphone tool that makes it easier and faster to test for Hepatitis C, especially for people in communities that need it most, like American Indians and Alaska Natives, so they can get diagnosed and treated sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10881754 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a smartphone-enabled diagnostic tool for Hepatitis C virus (HCV) that aims to provide rapid and accurate testing, especially in underserved populations. The approach involves using artificial intelligence and point-of-care technology to streamline the testing process, making it more accessible and efficient. By addressing the challenges of current testing methods, the project seeks to improve early diagnosis and treatment initiation for individuals at risk of HCV, particularly among American Indians and Alaska Natives who are disproportionately affected by the virus.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for Hepatitis C, particularly those from American Indian and Alaska Native populations.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Hepatitis C or who have already been diagnosed and are receiving treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of Hepatitis C, significantly improving health outcomes for affected individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mobile technology for health diagnostics, indicating that this approach could be effective in improving HCV detection.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shafiee, Hadi — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Shafiee, Hadi
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.