A TAUNTON-based company has developed a computer system that scans blood test results to analyse long term trends that could show a higher risk of developing liver disease.

Patients can than be called to see a specialist and, if necessary, be given advice and treatment to stop serious illness developing

Working with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, has announced the release of hepatoSIGHT, a simple web-based system that identifies people with undiagnosed liver disease before they have symptoms.

Pilot studies at Musgrove Park Hospital have shown that hepatoSIGHT can quickly and easily find people at risk of developing advanced liver disease, allowing them to be treated far earlier.

Dr Tim Jobson, a liver specialist at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust and clinical director of Predictive Health Intelligence, said: “Liver disease is the third biggest cause of premature death in working age people in this country, but if we find people early in the disease, we can stop it developing.”

Professor Daniel Meron, chief medical officer for Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a very exciting opportunity to change the way that healthcare is delivered.

"By finding people earlier we are making a huge difference to their lives and the NHS.

"At a time of intense pressure, using technology that empowers clinicians to get ahead is critical.

"At Somerset Foundation Trust we're proud to be leading the field alongside our partners at Predictive Health Intelligence.”

Predictive Health Intelligence managing director Neil Stevens said: "Our team has worked hard to create a product, in conjunction with our technology partner Stalis, that is not only easy to use but also addresses the specific needs of the NHS.

"We are confident it will have a significant impact on the health of the nation, and we look forward to its wide scale adoption."

One patient who took part in the early project said: “I love this project as it is proactive and finds people who might not be ill now but can have some help and to make sure they don’t become ill in the future.”

To learn more about hepatoSIGHT visit www.predictivehealthintelligence.co.uk