The Epidemiology of Chronic Hepatitis C: Where We Are Now

• DOI: 10.3390/livers4020013
• Publication Date: 2024-04-01T09:44:36Z
• Authors: Cristina Stasi; Caterina Milli; Fabio Voller; Caterina Silvestri
• Keywords: Medicine (General); 03 medical and health sciences; R5-920; HCV antibody test; screening; eradication; chronic hepatitis C; prison; 0305 other medical science; addiction service

One of the main objectives World Health Organization is eradication viral hepatitis by 2030 identifying subjects before disease progression. In 2019, only 21% 58 million people chronically infected with C virus (HCV) had been diagnosed, while overall 13% treated. The key recommendation international screening programs to reach at major risk and general population. National plans, including that in Italy, have dedicated budget lines support efforts achieve objective elimination. Italian program involves free for HCV population born between 1969 1989 also all persons care addiction services (Ser.D) prisoners. differed slightly among regions Italy. particular, referring period 1969–1989, Tuscany, these received an invitation SMS undergo a antibody test. If test results were positive, subject was registered on regional platform required RNA testing, prescribed their GP. case testing positive RNA, linkage (i.e., patient entry into specialist after diagnosis) guaranteed. A strong effort currently eliminate effectively. This review highlights most recent changes epidemiological scenario global, European, Italian, (Tuscany) levels.