News
First Annual Evidence Update on Alcoholic Liver Disease
Posted: 8 December 2009
The First Annual Evidence Update on alcoholic liver disease is available to view free at:
www.library.nhs.uk/GASTROLIVER/ViewResource.aspx?resID=332182
NHS Evidence Annual Evidence Updates (AEUs) attempt to draw together recently published, high quality evidence - focusing particularly on systematic reviews and published guidelines - which it is hoped will inform and enhance the decision making and planning of clinicians, commissioners and others involved in the process of health care.
Alcohol misuse produces a spectrum of liver injury ranging from simple fatty change through alcoholic hepatitis to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. They present an overview of the best systematic reviews and selected primary research from the past two years, along with commentary from experts in the field. A detailed literature search from 2008-2009 identified 715 potential pieces of evidence.
Following a process of filtering and peer review (with thanks to expert reviewers) 27 of these form the basis of this AEU. They also provide links to useful policy documents and other items of interest.
It is imperative that those involved in commissioning and delivering care are apprised of the best available evidence and guidelines against which to review their service. They hope that the AEU in alcoholic liver disease will provide a prime source of such evidence.
NHS Evidence would be grateful for any feedback on this annual evidence update. Contact:
Email: s.clarke@medsch.ucl.ac.uk