NHS testing initiative to eradicate hepatitis C in England by 2025
Thousands of people in England unknowingly living with hepatitis C could be identified and treated thanks to a comprehensive NHS testing initiative.
The initiative includes new liver scan and portable testing units that will be rolled out in communities where people are at higher risk of contracting the infection.
Also included in the initiative are testing events taking place at GP practices and community activities at drug and alcohol services.
It is estimated that more than 60,000 people across England are living with chronic hepatitis C without knowing it. Many people living with the virus do not realize they have it because there are no noticeable symptoms until the liver has been significantly damaged. The infection is transmitted by coming into contact with the blood of someone who is infected.
People identified as living with hepatitis C, a virus that damages the liver, can access antiviral treatments on the NHS.
The initiative is part of the NHS’s aim to eliminate the virus, with NHS England saying it is on track to eliminate the virus by 2025. The World Health Organization aims to eradicate the virus worldwide by 2030.
Since the start of the hepatitis C elimination program in 2014, approximately 84,000 people have been treated for the virus.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, the National Medical Director of the NHS, said: “This investment will ensure that the NHS will continue to save thousands of lives and set the international standard in the drive to eradicate hepatitis C by 2030, while making a significant health inequalities are addressed.
“New portable testing equipment and an expansion of our groundbreaking commercial deal will help us reach those most at risk as we begin our final push to eradicate the virus and find and cure the remaining cases.
“For your peace of mind, we urge anyone who may be living with hepatitis C to get checked: there are several ways to get tested, including screening programs or taking a simple test at home. If left untreated, the virus can lead to life-threatening conditions, but treatment is simple, curative and easily accessible.”
Dr. Monica Desai, head of hepatitis at UKHSA, said: “The elimination of hepatitis C as a public health threat is within reach if we can accelerate testing, support people to access effective treatment that clears the virus, and reduce the stigma may reduce that experienced by people with hepatitis. C and prevent people from getting the infection in the first place – especially in people who inject drugs.
“The symptoms of hepatitis C can go unnoticed for years. But the sooner you get diagnosed, the sooner you can access curative treatments and prevent serious liver damage.
“So if you have ever injected drugs, even if it was a long time ago, get tested. The test is quick and free and can be ordered via an online portal if you prefer to do so instead of visiting your GP. Also get tested if you have ever had medical treatment abroad, or had condomless sex with someone who may have hepatitis C.”
Rachel Halford, CEO of the Hepatitis C Trust, said: “Since the Hepatitis C Trust was established over two decades ago, the progress made in patient care and treatment is beyond anything we could have imagined. Not only is there now a reliable cure for hepatitis C, but we are on the cusp of eradicating the virus in England.
“Many people at greatest risk from hepatitis C face barriers to accessing healthcare, but the success of the elimination program to date proves that through innovative partnership work and keeping the patient at the center, there are ways to help everyone reach and treat.”