Territory‐wide population‐based study of chronic hepatitis C infection and implications for hepatitis elimination in Hong Kong

• DOI: 10.1111/liv.13926
• Publication Date: 2018-07-07T07:43:31Z
• Authors: Yee Tak Hui; Grace L. H. Wong; James Y. Y. Fung; Henry L. Y. Chan; Nancy W. Y. Leung; Sienna D. Liu; Ken Liu; Yiu Keung Ma; David Y. K. But; Wing Yan Mak; Jacky M. C. Chan; Kin Bon Lai; Ching Kong Loo; Annie C. Y. Ng; Moon Sing Lai; Chun Wing Chan; Joulen Y. L. Lau; Tina T. T. Fan; Aric J. Hui; Belsy C. Y. Lam; Wing I. Cheung; Owen T. Y. Tsang; Karen Lam; Lawrence S. W. Lai; Wai Fan Luk; Michael K. K. Li; Wai Cheung Lao; Jodis T. W. Lam; Steven W. C. Tsang; Kam Ngai Kung; Wai Hung Chow; Ronald K. N. Tong; Thomas K. L. Lui; Edwin H. S. Shan; Man Fung Yuen; Vincent W. S. Wong
• Keywords: Pegylated interferon; Hepatitis C

Abstract Background To study the epidemiology of chronic hepatitis C virus infection in Hong Kong and to estimate service gap for achieving WHO elimination targets attaining a diagnosis rate 90%, treatment 80% 65% reduction mortality by 2030. Methods From January 2005 March 2017, patients who were tested positive anti‐ HCV retrospectively retrieved from all public hospitals Kong. The epidemiological data 15 participating analysed. Results A total 11 309 + identified estimated was 50.9%. Our ‐infected ageing (median age 59). all‐cause increased 26.2 54.8 per 1000 person‐years over last decade. 12.4%. Among treated patients, 93.6% had received pegylated interferon/ribavirin (Peg‐ IFN / RBV ) but only 10.8% interferon‐free direct‐acting antivirals ( DAA s). In cohort 1533 39% already advanced liver fibrosis or cirrhosis. sustained virological response Peg‐ s 74.8% 97.2% respectively. However, more than 70% not subjected interferon various reasons. Patients achieved SVR associated with significantly lower risk HCC (4.7% vs 9.6%, P = 0.005) death (1.7% 23.8%, < 0.001). Conclusion rate, still low, particularly outcomes, making it difficult meet targets. generalized use is urgently needed improve situation.