Hepatitis C: prevalence, transmission, screening, and prevention

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) affects 185 million globally, causing more US deaths than HIV.
• Increased mortality is anticipated with the aging baby boomer generation, who have the highest HCV prevalence.
• Injection drug use is the primary transmission route, though other less common routes exist, and risk factors are unknown in 21% of cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening.
• To emphasize early identification and treatment of HCV to prevent severe liver disease.
• To inform healthcare providers and the public about current screening recommendations.

Main Methods:

• Review of current epidemiological data on Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
• Analysis of transmission modes and risk factors associated with HCV.
• Summary of recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) for HCV screening.

Main Results:

• HCV infection poses a significant mortality risk, exceeding HIV in the US.
• A specific birth cohort (1945-1965) exhibits the highest prevalence, necessitating targeted screening.
• Screening aims to identify individuals for timely treatment, mitigating progression to advanced liver disease.

Conclusions:

• Universal one-time HCV screening for individuals born between 1945-1965 is recommended.
• Screening should also target individuals with specific risk factors for Hepatitis C virus (HCV).
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent long-term hepatic complications and reduce HCV-related mortality.