BaroTest 2026
The BaroTest survey is a virological component focused on hepatitis B, C, and delta, conducted as part of the Health Barometer. It consists of free, voluntary screening for hepatitis B, C, and delta viruses, offered to all respondents aged 18 or older and residing in mainland France, via the mailing of a self-collection kit to the address chosen by the individual.
Video
Watch the BaroTest video
The BaroTest 2026 survey allows anyone who wishes to do so to be screened for hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and hepatitis delta (HDV) using a self-collection test on filter...
Following the first edition conducted in 2016, this survey will be repeated starting March 16, 2026.
Objectives
To update estimates of the prevalence of hepatitis B, C, and delta in the general population of mainland France and the proportion of infected individuals who are aware of their infection.
To assess the acceptability of online screening for these infections.
Context and challenge
While France has set a goal of eliminating hepatitis C by 2025, and the WHO aims to eliminate hepatitis B and C by 2030, identifying people with these infections remains essential to ensure their care and access to treatment.
In this context, updating data on the prevalence of these infections and the proportion of people aware of their status is important.
Method
BaroTest involves a self-administered blood sample taken at home from the fingertip and applied to a blotting paper. Laboratory analyses are performed by the National Reference Center (CNR) for Viral Hepatitis B, C, and Delta, a partner in the survey.
Procedure
Participants in the Santé publique France Barometer who are aged 18 to 79, reside in mainland France, and are not subject to any legal protective measures (guardianship, conservatorship, judicial protection, etc.) are invited to undergo free and voluntary screening for hepatitis B, C, and delta viruses. To do so, those who agree to participate will receive a kit at the address of their choice containing the necessary materials to perform the self-collection and return it to the CNR.
The CNR for Viral Hepatitis B, C, and Delta will provide the results by phone and/or mail to each participant as well as to their doctor (if indicated on the consent form).
Authorizations
The BaroTest 2026:
is classified as research involving human subjects with minimal risk and minimal constraints, as it requires the collection of a blood sample, in accordance with the provisions of the decree of April 12, 2018, establishing the list of research studies mentioned in paragraph 2 of Article L. 1121-1 of the Public Health Code. It is therefore subject to the provisions of the Public Health Code relating to such research;
received a favorable opinion from the East II Human Subjects Protection Committee on September 24, 2025 (national number 2025-A00756-43);
implements the processing of personal health data in accordance with CNIL reference methodology MR-001.
