A note of caution amidst a 'revolution' in hepatitis C treatment

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A note of caution amidst a 'revolution' in hepatitis C treatment

17 August 2017

By Clare Morgan

As new treatments for hepatitis C reshape the landscape, new data from UNSW underscore the need to address issues including discrimination, stigma and engaging marginalised communities.

Tens of thousands of Australians have been cured of Hepatitis C since new treatments were made universally available last year, and a report released last month said Australia is on track to eliminate hepatitis C by 2026.

But while new treatments continue to dramatically reshape the landscape, data from the Centre for Social Research in Health's (CSRH) Annual Report of Trends in Behaviour 2017: Viral Hepatitis in Australia underscores the need for caution.

Addressing stigma in healthcare settings, engaging marginalised communities in prevention, and continuing to trial innovative models of care will all be imperative if the 'new era' of treatment is to fulfil its promise, the report says.

It also notes the challenges of dealing with hepatitis B: about one third of people living with the disease are yet to be diagnosed and only 6% have been treated.

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Thumbnail Flickr CC Sanofi Pasteur