The Elimination of Hepatitis C as a Public Health Threat

Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med. 2020 Apr 1;10(4):a036939. doi: 10.1101/cshperspect.a036939.

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus is a global public health threat, affecting 71 million people worldwide. Increasing recognition of the impact of this epidemic and recent advances in biomedical and technical approaches to hepatitis C prevention and cure have provided impetus for the World Health Organization (WHO) to call for global elimination of hepatitis C as a public health threat by 2030. This work reviews the feasibility of hepatitis C elimination and pathways to overcome existing and potential future barriers to elimination. Drawing on cost-effectiveness modeling and providing examples of successful implementation efforts across the globe, we highlight the resources and strategies needed to achieve hepatitis C elimination. A timely, multipronged response is required if the 2030 WHO elimination targets are to be achieved. Importantly, achieving hepatitis C elimination will also benefit the community well beyond 2030.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / adverse effects
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Forecasting
  • Global Burden of Disease
  • Health Services Accessibility*
  • Hepatitis C / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis C / epidemiology
  • Hepatitis C / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Public Health*
  • World Health Organization

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents