England set to eliminate hepatitis C

England is poised to become one of the first nations globally to eradicate hepatitis C, a liver-damaging virus. The nation has already achieved its goal of treating 80% of known cases, with related deaths falling by 36% over the past decade – just shy of the 2030 target. Antiviral pills can cure over 95% of cases within 8 to 12 weeks.

Enhanced screening efforts, such as A&E blood tests, GP registration checks, and free at-home tests, have identified previously undiagnosed individuals, according to NHS England. Hepatitis C spreads via blood contact with infected blood, like sharing needles. Symptoms often go unnoticed until later stages, potentially causing severe liver damage.

Since 2015, more than 100,000 people have been diagnosed and treated for hepatitis C in England, meeting the current target. Reducing mortality by 65% compared to 2015 levels remains to be achieved but may occur before the 2030 deadline. Approximately 50,200 adults are living with the virus in England in 2024, with 84.6% diagnosed – short of the 90% target.

The Hepatitis C Trust believes England is on the brink of a significant public health accomplishment. NHS national medical director Prof Frankie Swords stated: "England is now leading the world in the mission to eliminate this disease and on course to beat the WHO's 2030 target, but we are determined to keep up the momentum and finish the job."

Those at higher risk, particularly adults born in certain Eastern European countries, are urged to get tested, as they may have contracted the virus through medical procedures before 1991. Paul Eatwell, a 65-year-old from Blackburn, Lancashire, was diagnosed after a routine blood test. Despite initially doubting the diagnosis, Eatwell emphasizes the significant impact of the medical support he received.