Description
Chronic hepatitis C is the leading cause of end-stage
liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma and the leading
indication for liver transplantation in the developed world.
Currently, it is estimated that approximately 170 million
individuals are chronically infected worldwide. The
incidence of liver-related complications is expected to rise
dramatically over the next 10 to 20 years, therefore placing
a huge burden on the health systems and economies of many
countries. Although antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis
C has advanced considerably over the past decade, a
significant proportion of patients are either not suitable for,
or do not respond to therapy. In addition to outlining the
recommended treatment for chronic hepatitis C, this article
will focus on measures aimed at controlling the transmission
of the virus.
