The Alarming Reality of Hepatitis C Treatment

Recent studies reveal troubling disparities in hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment across 119 countries from 2014 to 2023, underscoring a critical need for improved access, active screening, and effective healthcare linkages. With the World Health Organization (WHO) aiming to eliminate HCV by 2030, time is running out.

Staggering Treatment Figures

According to research utilizing national HCV registries and pharmaceutical sales data, only 13 million individuals—just 21% of the estimated 62 million chronic HCV infections—have received direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) in the past decade. This falls drastically short of the targets set for diagnosis and treatment.

Expert Insight on HCV Challenges

Heiner Wedemeyer, MD, an authority in gastroenterology, emphasizes the importance of these findings. He points out that while some progress has been made, significant hurdles remain for reaching the WHO's ambitious elimination timeline.

Where Are Treatments Happening?

The Polaris Observatory documented that the peak of DAA treatment occurred in 2019, closely linked to Egypt's robust HCV elimination program. Alarmingly, Egypt, Pakistan, the U.S., and the EU collectively accounted for a staggering 67% of total treatments.

Impact of COVID-19 on Treatment Rates

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically affected treatment rates, particularly in high-income countries where there was an 8% decline before an even steeper 29% drop in 2020. Conversely, upper middle-income countries saw a treatment increase of 16%, while low-income regions experienced a jaw-dropping 650% rise.

The Price of Treatment Matters

Pricing plays a pivotal role in treatment access, especially in low- and middle-income nations. High costs have hindered public and private sector treatment expansion. In wealthier countries, significant price drops were noted as reimbursements became a major influencing factor.

A Call to Action

Wedemeyer concludes with a crucial message: HCV is curable, and eliminating it is possible, but only through prioritized public health initiatives. With under seven years until the 2030 deadline, countries must ramp up their efforts against this preventable disease.