EASL recommendations on treatment of hepatitis C: Final update of the series☆

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    Journal of Hepatology
    |September 21, 2020
    PubMed

    Insights

    Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects millions globally, causing chronic liver disease. Advances in understanding, diagnostics, and therapies offer pathways to eliminate HCV as a public health threat.

    Area of Science:

    • Hepatology
    • Virology
    • Public Health

    Background:

    • Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a significant global health issue, leading to chronic liver disease in approximately 71 million individuals worldwide.
    • Despite advancements, regional variations impact the feasibility of eliminating HCV as a public health threat.

    Framework:

    • Clinical care for HCV has seen substantial advancements.
    • Developments encompass enhanced diagnostic procedures and refined therapeutic interventions.
    • Prevention strategies have also been improved.

    Implementation:

    • Current therapies offer the potential to eradicate hepatitis C.
    • The World Health Organization has set targets for HCV elimination.
    • Regional variations exist in the feasibility and timeline for achieving these elimination goals.

    Implications:

    • European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) provides recommendations for optimal HCV management.
    • These guidelines address both recently acquired and chronic HCV infections.
    • The recommendations are crucial for clinical practice from 2020 onwards.

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