Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, which can lead to functional damage. Very often, hepatitis is caused by a hepatitis virus (such as Hepatitis A, B, C, D and E). According to the WHO, there are over currently 300 million people living with Hepatitis in one of its forms.
Hepatitis A, B and C are most common, with hepatitis B and C leading to lifelong illnesses. Unfortunately, it is possible for a person to contract both Hepatitis B and C together. Hepatitis C (HCV) is most commonly contracted through shared needles or due to birth from an HCV-infected mother.
One of the biggest concerns with HCV is timely detection. Around 80% of individuals with HCV are unaware that they are living with it, as patients are typically asymptomatic or have mild, easily missed symptoms until the onset of chronic HCV infection — wherein chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and liver cancer can set in. Its symptoms also tend to mimic those of HIV, meaning a correct diagnosis can be further prolonged.
Currently there is one cure for HCV — one a day pill called Harvoni. Harvoni is a mix of Ledipasvir and Sofosbuvir — proteases that are hypothesised to act by inhibiting an RNA polymerase within the Hepatitis C virus [Source]. While a breakthrough medication in its own right, unfortunately its price is rather steep, with the entire 12-week treatment course costing nearly $100,000, although generics are now available for around Rs 24,000 [Source].
This is further compounded by the fact that HCV disproportionately affects individuals in marginalized populations, meaning that the cost of the drug can be a large burden — especially for those who may not have access to public health care
Given the current circumstances, the World Hepatitis Alliance recognises 28th July as World Hepatitis Day in order to spread awareness about the disease and discuss its prevention. To learn more, click here: https://www.worldhepatitisday.org/