Hepatitis C could be "wiped out" in ten years

Hepatitis C could disappear in the next decade, according to NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.

They’ve revealed that staff have treated 1,213 people in the past year – a staggering 80% more than the target of 675 set to them by the Scottish Government.

And with treatment for the virus changing dramatically in recent years, it’s hoped that a total eradication may be on the horizon.

Dr Linda de Caestecker, director of public health at NHSGGC, said: “In the last year we have treated more than 1,200 people and there is a real possibility that we could potentially wipe it out within the next decade.

“Our mantra is test, treat, eliminate and through this, everyone involved in the care of patients who may have hepatitis C can play their part in preventing related liver disease, by offering a simple blood test.

“Our staff deserve enormous credit not only for being able to engage with so many people affected, but also for getting so many tested and into treatment.”

Anyone with a positive diagnosis is eligible for treatment with once-daily tablets, which cure 95% of cases and have “no significant side effects”.

Previously, patients were given a 48-week course of injections which could be accompanied by serious side effects.

Physical and mental health conditions, including alcohol and drug use, are also no longer a barrier to treatment access.

Dr Stephen Barclay, a consultant gastroenterologist for NHSGGC, said: “We know that there are thousands of people in the board area who are living with hepatitis C, but are unaware.

“The infection may cause no symptoms for many years until serious liver disease or cancer develops.

“In NHSGGC the risk is mainly amongst people who have used drugs, regardless of how long ago.

“We encourage anyone who has been at risk to get tested and treated which is a much easier process now.