Every year, thousands of people living with liver cirrhosis face an uncertain future. There are currently no drugs proven to treat or slow the disease, leaving patients at risk of life-threatening complications, and with limited options for care.
But thanks to donations from our generous supporters, we’ve been able to fund a £47,000 grant towards a ground-breaking clinical trial that offers new hope.
A first-of-its-kind trial
We’ve proudly funded a £47,000 grant for a ground-breaking clinical trial at the Institute of Liver Sciences at King’s College Hospital - the largest of its kind in the world. It will involve 760 patients with liver disease from across the UK, all coming together to help answer a vital question:
Can beta blockers - drugs already used for other conditions - reduce pressure in the veins (varices) caused by cirrhosis, and help prevent dangerous bleeds?
Dr Vishal Patel and Dr Mark McPhail, both based at King’s, lead the trial.
Why it matters
Cirrhosis affects around 60,000 people in the UK, and sadly, about 11,000 will die each year because of it. One of the most serious risks is internal bleeding caused by swollen veins (varices), which can be fatal.
If this trial shows that beta blockers are effective in preventing these complications, it could lead to a transformative shift in how cirrhosis is treated, not just at King’s, but across the country and globally.
Your impact
This wouldn't have been possible without our supporters. You’re helping King’s remain at the forefront of liver research worldwide, building knowledge that will shape future diagnostics, therapies, and care.
Together, we're helping to bring hope to those who need it most.
Donate today
