Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Article Title: ANALYSIS OF NATIONAL LIVER DISEASE STATE OF THE ART IN NORTH AFRICAN COUNTRY (EGYPT): IDENTIFYING GAPS AND PRIORITY NEEDS TO RESHAPE LIVER DIESEASE PROBLEM AND PROMOTE EURO-MIDETERRANEAN CO-OPERATION
by Sayed, H.A., El -Dusoki, H., El-Qareh, N., Abdelwadoud, M., El-Sherbini, E., El-Defrawy, I., Fam, N., Siyam, M., El-Khayat, H., Lawrance, O., Radwan, A., Sabry, Y., Stefani, A., Desimone, P., Ghinolfi

Abstract:
Viral hepatitis comprises the major part of liver disease problem worldwide. Egypt possesses the highest burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV) coupled with socioeconomic implications representing a real challenge for development. Analysis of the national liver disease problem (mainly viral hepatitis) was conducted to identify research/management gaps and assign priorities compatible with the national socioeconomic needs. This analysis may help create links for further coordination with other Euro-Mediterranean countries targeting liver disease. The state of the art analysed the Egyptian national strategies, related research conducted over the period 2005-2010, and the potential of the Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI). The analysis pinpointed gaps and priority needs revolving around six main pillars: governance, finance, networking, education/training, policy and technical/research. The most salient priority needs recognized involved: the need for an oversight body to coordinate health service providers, enhancement of networking, strategies to increase awareness about modes of disease transmission, expansion of infection control and training programs for supportive staff. Operational research to scale up case detection, mathematical modelling for estimating future viral hepatitis burden, metadata analysis studies for best ranking prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers, new makeover e.g. home-made, more cost-effective shorter course treatments and paediatric antiviral preparations.

Keywords: liver disease, viral hepatitis, gaps, priority needs, Egypt

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