South London Research Nurse on the TEST study

Our Research Nurse, Gladys Emmanuel, spoke about her work on the TEST study. Gladys also highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of Chagas disease.

What is the TEST study about?

This research is trying to understand the epidemiology of Chagas disease in London. Latin American people living in London are the target audience for this study. Researchers hope to translate this epidemiological understanding into a screening programme.

Chagas disease is a parasitic disease caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. It is endemic in 21 countries in Central America, South America and Mexico. Chagas disease is a public health problem. If left undiagnosed and untreated, it can cause cardiac or gastrointestinal complications.

Why is the TEST study important?

The TEST study offers screening to Latin American people. Early detection and management of Chagas disease is important to reduce any complications. Complications could include issues with the heart. If patients test positive, they can receive treatment. The disease can become chronic if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment of Chagas disease will reduce complications.

How is CRN South London supporting the TEST study?

We are providing two nurses in one of our GP practices between 9am-3pm on Tuesdays and Fridays. Our nurses contact patients who have expressed an interest in taking part in the study. We discuss the research with them and offer a clinic appointment if they still want to take part in TEST.

Can you explain your day-to-day duties in supporting the study?

We see patients booked into the clinic and discuss the study with them. We gain their consent, complete a study questionnaire and collect a blood sample. Patients are told after three to four weeks if they have tested positive or negative. Someone who has tested positive will receive guidance on how to get treatment.