Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is the major etiological cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Thus, it goes without saying that timely intervention of diagnosis and relevant treatment are the calls of the time.
According to the studies, HCV prevalence was between 0% and 1% in the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus (TRNC) populace. The studies were conducted with the aim to review the HCV epidemiology in the TRNC as per the latest data.
However, an increase in HCV prevalence is estimated because of relapses and cases of illegal immigration.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major global public health problem. Let’s have a glance at its situation and treatment in the Republic of Cyprus.
Hepatitis C Situation in Cyprus
Cyprus has an estimated prevalence of chronic hepatitis C (CHC). Among the general population the patients who are infected are nearly 0.6%. The CHC is rampant among people who inject drugs (PWID) and is likely as much as 46%.
Cyprus doesn’t have easily available Direct-acting antivirals (DAA) that can do away with HCV. It is noteworthy that a long-term strategic plan is meant to eliminate the disease and enhance the effect of treatment, once DAA are available.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34497446/
Hepatitis C Issues and Challenges in Cyprus
ECDC and WHO Task Mission in Cyprus (January 2018) with the Ministry of Health of Cyprus have estimated the threats posed for the Hepatitis C treatment in the country.
As per the assessment and provision of improvement recommendations regarding the latest situation of the disease in Cyprus, several observations have been made.
Combating Hepatitis C and eradication goals may be achieved through:
- A National Action Plan
- A National Coordination Committee
The high demand for treatment and medications has to lead to the rise in Hepatitis C treatment costs in Cyprus. It is also because of the challenges of the country’s health economics. High innovation cost, lack of national drug price negotiations, and a free market economy are other reasons that contribute to the raise in Hep C medication and treatment costs. Drug companies have also raised the competition and eventually prices.
Super affordable Hepatitis c cost in India has paved way for medical tourism in India. Being a marketplace for generic and pocket-friendly Hepatitis C medicines, India attracts tourists from across the continents.
For instance, Generic licensed Harvoni cost in India is INR 25000 for a pack of 28 tablets. Similarly, the Generic licensed Indian Epclusa cost in India by Natco is INR 18,500 for a bottle of 28 tablets.
Hepatitis C Treatment in Cyprus
Hepatitis C has a sure shot treatment with a short course of medication for 8 to 12 weeks. Successful completion of this treatment course results in full recovery of patients as observed in 95% to 98% of Hepatitis C infection cases.
It is noteworthy that the cost of Hepatitis C treatment in Cyprus is high, making it difficult for people to afford it.
Having said that, here is a quick glance at the key intervention –
- Community mobilization
- Strategic data analysis
- Screening and diagnosis
- HCV cure as prevention for people who inject drugs
- Medication-assisted therapy
- Syringe service programs for people who inject drugs