The 9th Canadian Symposium on Hepatitis C Virus: Advances in HCV research and treatment towards elimination

Abstract

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination has evolved into a coordinated global effort. Canada, with more than 250,000 chronically infected individuals, is among the countries leading this effort. The 9th Canadian Symposium on HCV, held in February 2020, thus established and addressed its theme, ‘advances in HCV research and treatment towards elimination’, by gathering together basic scientists, clinicians, epidemiologists, social scientists, and community members interested in HCV research in Canada. Plenary sessions showcased topical research from prominent international and national researchers, complemented by select abstract presentations. This event was hosted by the Canadian Network on Hepatitis C (CanHepC), with support from the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and in partnership with the Canadian Liver Meeting. CanHepC has an established record in HCV research by its members and in its advocacy activities to address the care, treatment, diagnosis, and immediate and long-term needs of those affected by HCV infection. Many challenges remain in tackling chronic HCV infection, such as the need for a vaccine; difficult-to-treat populations and unknown aspects of patient subgroups, including pregnant women and children; vulnerable people; and issues distinct to Indigenous peoples. There is also increasing concern about long-term clinical outcomes after successful treatment, with the rise in comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver disease and the remaining risk for hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic individuals. The symposium addressed these topics in highlighting research advances that will collectively play an important role in eliminating HCV and minimizing subsequent health challenges.

Impact of COVID‐19‐related public health measures on HCV testing in British Columbia, Canada: An interrupted time series analysis

“…To that end, many member states have implemented policies and strategies to facilitate the attainment of the disease prevention, healthcare provision and mortality‐reduction goals that form the cornerstone of this Global Health Sector Strategy 1‐3 . Canada is making significant progress towards meeting the 2030 elimination goals, with the provision of unrestricted access to publicly funded therapy for persons with chronic HCV infection and elimination efforts being initiated in many provinces, including British Columbia (BC) 4‐6 . Testing is a key component of these efforts, and is the first step to engaging people living with HCV into care 7 …”

“…[1][2][3] Canada is making significant progress towards meeting the 2030 elimination goals, with the provision of unrestricted access to publicly funded therapy for persons with chronic HCV infection and elimination efforts being initiated in many provinces, including British Columbia (BC). [4][5][6] Testing is a key component of these efforts, and is the first step to engaging people living with HCV into care. 7 The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in late 2019 led to the implementation of broad public health measures to prevent and control transmission of the virus and to preserve healthcare resources in many countries across the world, including Canada.…”