[Pandemic of hepatitis C virus infection]

Area of Science:

• Hepatology and Virology

Background:

• Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a significant human pathogen.
• Chronic hepatitis C (HC) affects 55-85% of acute cases, leading to severe liver conditions.
• HCV is linked to advanced liver fibrosis, cirrhosis (CIH), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), causing substantial global morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the global health burden of HCV.
• To emphasize the need for ongoing research into novel therapeutic molecules for HCV infection.
• To acknowledge the high costs associated with HCV treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on HCV prevalence, genotypes, and associated diseases.
• Analysis of HCV's impact on public health and healthcare costs.
• Synthesis of current research trends in HCV therapeutics.

Main Results:

• HCV infection leads to serious liver diseases including fibrosis, cirrhosis, and cancer.
• Chronic HCV poses a significant and growing worldwide health problem.
• Development of new therapeutic molecules is essential but costly.

Conclusions:

• HCV remains a critical global health concern requiring effective interventions.
• Continued research and development of new HCV treatments are vital.
• Addressing the economic burden of HCV is crucial for effective management.