Barriers to access to hepatitis C treatment

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant global cause of chronic liver disease.
• Treatment accessibility remains a critical issue, with only 1%-30% of patients receiving necessary care.
• Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA) represent a major therapeutic advancement but face cost barriers in endemic regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the primary barriers hindering hepatitis C treatment access globally.
• To explore strategies and solutions for overcoming these treatment challenges.
• To highlight the importance of national and international support in HCV control.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes information on HCV treatment access and barriers.
• It examines the role of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAA) and traditional therapies.
• The analysis considers economic, infrastructural, and knowledge-related constraints.

Main Results:

• Cost is a major impediment to DAA adoption in low- and middle-income countries.
• Lack of knowledge, diagnostic limitations, and insufficient expertise are key barriers.
• Interferon and ribavirin remain first-line treatments in resource-limited settings due to availability and support.

Conclusions:

• Addressing HCV requires multifaceted strategies, including international collaboration and financial support.
• Developing lower-cost DAAs and bio-equivalent drugs is crucial for global access.
• Continuous monitoring of pharmaceutical developments and the counterfeit drug market is essential.