Australia leading worldwide effort to eliminate Hepatitis C by 2030

Pharma News: Today, on World Hepatitis Day, Gilead Sciences welcomes the findings of an independent global report that has revealed Australia is one of 10 countries working towards the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) goal to eliminate HCV by 2030.

The new report titled “Winning the Race to Eliminate Hepatitis C”, assessed the current status of HCV elimination in 29 high-income countries, covering Europe, Australia, and Canada. While profiling the significant progress made to date, including in Australia, the report recognises momentum is slowing, and a renewed political focus, alongside increased investment and dedicated resources are required if we are going to achieve disease elimination.

Jaime McCoy, General Manager, Gilead Sciences Australia commented: “The visionary and proactive approach taken here in Australia, has resulted in over 85,000 Australians being treated and cured of their hepatitis C. In particular, the decisive action by the Australian Government to enable universal reimbursed access to DAA treatment has significantly reduced the burden of HCV in Australia.”

“However, there are an estimated 130,000 people still living with HCV in Australia, with 600 dying from preventative conditions like liver disease every year. World Hepatitis Day is not only an opportunity to reflect on the considerable progress achieved to date, but all to reaffirm our efforts to maintaining momentum to eliminate HCV in Australia”, said Ms. McCoy.

The Report highlights challenges facing key at-risk groups, including people who inject drugs, migrants and indigenous communities, and outlines the hallmarks of a successful model of care including the implementation of a test-and-treat model to eliminate gaps between diagnosis and treatment. The innovative Queensland-based Kombi Clinic program is profiled in the Report as one of the best in the world for reaching at-risk groups and successfully facilitating treatment.

Ms. McCoy said “There is global recognition that one of the strengths of Australia’s response has been partnerships and the willingness of policymakers to prioritise and invest in HCV resources. At Gilead, we are proud of our role to date and are committed to collaborating across our sector to ensure we can eliminate this debilitating and deadly disease.”

Today, 28 July 2020, is World Hepatitis Day. It is a global initiative that aims to raise global awareness of hepatitis and encourage prevention, diagnosis and treatment.