The EPIC-Norfolk StudyThere were 13 participant panel members, six researchers and Michelle Chan (speaker) attending. Laura Worley (Research Assistant, Norwich) would be taking over the role as acting minute-taker as Steph Moore has now left the EPIC Group.
Matters arising from previous minutes
Panel members have been asked to complete a feedback form for their experience of the standalone mailout questionnaire posted to all EPIC participants (June/July 17). They were also asked to complete the annual panel member feedback form.
Talk on Eyes in EPIC-Norfolk
Michelle Chan (FRCOphth, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London) gave a presentation which used data from the EPIC-Norfolk eye study. She explained that there are many studies across the world investigating glaucoma but the last in the UK was in 1966. It is from this study that the current intraocular pressure (IOP) referral guidelines were derived.
A paper using EPIC-Norfolk third health check eye test data has recently been published which challenges this guideline. Evidence from the recently published paper using EPIC-Norfolk 3HC data questions whether the guideline is still relevant to the population. The EPIC data will be presented to NICE.
Update from Professor Khaw
In April 2016, Prof. Khaw spoke to the panel about a collaborative project proposal involving EPIC participants. Panel members at that time were asked for their opinions on the proposed project and Prof. Khaw came back to the meeting today to provide an update and feedback on the status of the suggested collaboration.
The Fifth Health Check
Approximately 1300 participants have so far attended a Fifth Health Check (5HC) and participants are still very willing to come.
Other matters
Three EPAP members will be giving a presentation to the NCHC board at the Norwich Community Hospital in February 2018. Additionally, one EPAP member and Research Nurse from the Norwich Clinic will attend the INVOLVE conference in London and will provide feedback at the January meeting.
An EPAP member who has been involved in several clinical trials informed panel members of the existence of a database for anyone wishing to take part in other research studies.
The next meetings
January 18, April 18, July 18