Greece sets the goal of eliminating Hepatitis C by 2030

Greece has set the goal of eliminating hepatitis C by 2030, in line with the strategy of the World Health Organization (WHO). The disease is currently curable, since in recent years, new generation drugs have radically changed the landscape in the treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C.

The new drugs, administered as tablets, have a strong antiviral effect and increase the response rate in the treatment while simultaneously reducing its duration.

Today, in our country all patients have access to the new treatment regimens that lead to the complete clearance of the virus and the cure of the infection.

In fact, according to EOPYY data, from 2014 until today, 13,322 people have received treatment with the new treatment regimens. It is estimated that 70,000 people suffer from this type of hepatitis in Greece.

On the occasion of today's World Hepatitis Day, EODY reminds that the goal of the WHO is not only to eliminate hepatitis C but also hepatitis B, whose chronic carriers are estimated at 200,000 in Greece.

Vaccination against hepatitis B has been included in the National Immunisation Program of our country and is the only effective way to prevent the disease and its complications. In addition, the use of combination antiviral drugs has contributed significantly to the treatment of viral hepatitis B.

It is recalled that, in recent months, an unexplained increase in cases of acute hepatitis in children has been observed worldwide. The scientific community is working to identify its cause, as it is not any of the 5 known types of hepatitis viruses: A, B, C, D and E.

At the same time, the WHO for 2022 has focused on actions regarding hepatitis people's easy access to diagnosis and treatment. In order to achieve this goal, there should be the possibility of diagnosis and treatment at the level of primary healthcare and not only in specialized centers.

EODY is active today and from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., its mobile unit will be located in Korai Square in Athens to inform the public.

Proper information is the only way to eliminate the unwarranted anxiety, fear and prejudice that lead to the emotional and social isolation of people infected with viral hepatitis.

The Hepatitis Department of EODY is at the disposal of the public and health professionals for any clarification or information on the phones: 210 5212178 and 210 5212183, KEPIX: 210 5212054, as well as on the internet at EODY.

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