England Nears Hepatitis C Elimination Goal

England is nearing a significant public health achievement: the elimination of hepatitis C. Figures released show that the country has already met its target of treating 80% of all known cases. This success is reflected in a 36% decrease in deaths from the virus over the last decade.

Effective treatment is available, with antiviral tablets administered over 8 to 12 weeks curing more than 95% of cases. NHS England has implemented various initiatives, including A&E and GP blood tests, alongside free at-home testing kits, to identify individuals who were previously undiagnosed.

Since 2015, over 100,000 people have been diagnosed and treated for hepatitis C. While a 65% reduction in mortality compared to 2015 levels is yet to be fully met, there is optimism it will be achieved before the 2030 target. Around 50,200 adults are estimated to be living with hepatitis C in England as of 2024.

The country is now leading the global mission to eliminate this disease. Public health officials are urging individuals at greater risk, particularly those born in specific Eastern European countries and who may have had medical procedures before 1991, to come forward for testing. Free and confidential home-testing kits are readily available online.