Liver check-up service shortlisted for award

A pop-up health clinic scheme offering potentially life-saving liver scans has been shortlisted for a national award.

About 1,500 fibroscans have been completed since the service launched in 2024, City of Wolverhampton Council said.

Fibroscans, which the authority said were similar to ultrasounds, check for scarring and fat build-up in the liver, which can be early indicators of conditions such as fatty liver, fibrosis or cirrhosis.

The initiative, which provides results instantly, has led to nearly 200 referrals to The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust.

The mobile tests have taken place in a variety of community centres, businesses and faith settings, including gurdwaras and mosques, helping to "break down barriers" in accessing treatment, the authority added.

The success of the scheme has led to it being shortlisted in the Public and Population Health category at the LGC (Local Government Chronicle) Awards.

Wolverhampton councillor Obaida Ahmed, cabinet member for health, wellbeing and community, said she was "very proud" the programme had been recognised.

She said it was helping to "bridge the gap" between the number of people needing alcohol support and those receiving it.

"The community fibroscan clinics are a fantastic example of how we are working with partners to bring healthcare into familiar, welcoming spaces," she added.

"Early liver damage often presents no symptoms, and the clinics have proved highly effective in engaging people who would not typically interact with health and treatment services."

Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.