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The Elimination of Hepatitis C as a Public Health Threat.

Hellard M, Schroeder SE, Pedrana A, Doyle J, Aitken C

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  • Published 01 Jan 2020

  • Volume 10

  • ISSUE 4

  • Pagination 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.