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Hepatitis C Treatment and Barriers to Eradication
Monica A Konerman1, Anna S F Lok1
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology
|September 23, 2016
Summary
Current chronic hepatitis C (CHC) treatments are effective but face barriers to eradication. Gaps in screening, diagnosis, access, cost, and reinfection hinder disease elimination efforts.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Current direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies offer high cure rates for chronic hepatitis C (CHC).
- Despite treatment advances, CHC remains a significant global health burden.
- Persistent challenges impede complete disease eradication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current CHC treatment efficacy and tolerability.
- To identify remaining gaps in CHC therapy.
- To outline barriers preventing CHC eradication.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current CHC treatment guidelines and outcomes.
- Analysis of factors contributing to CHC incidence and reinfection.
- Examination of healthcare system and medication cost barriers.
Main Results:
- Majority of CHC patients achieve sustained virologic response with current therapies.
- Significant barriers include inadequate screening and diagnosis.
- High medication costs and reinfection, particularly among injection drug users, persist.
Conclusions:
- While CHC treatments are highly effective, systemic issues hinder eradication.
- Addressing screening, access, cost, and reinfection is crucial for eliminating CHC.
- Integrated strategies are needed to overcome remaining obstacles to CHC elimination.
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