State of epidemiological knowledge and national management of hepatitis C virus infection in the European Community, 1996

Abstract

Background: Since the identification of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in 1989, hepatitis C infection has been recognized as an infection of public health importance. However, the magnitude of the problem is not well estimated at the European level. In order to assess the burden of HCV infection and to analyse the prevention and management policies of this illness at the European level, we performed a survey of European Union (EU) member state health authorities. Methods: For this purpose, we collected all currently running policies regarding the surveillance, prevention and medical care of HCV infection in EU states through a questionnaire sent to the public health authorities of each member state. Results: Based on the data reported by the different member-states, we estimated that 2.4–5.0 million subjects are HCV seropositive in the EU. If we assume, in accordance with the literature, that approximately 70% of those seropositive for HCV have a viral multiplication, 1.7–3.5 million subjects are potentially infectious and most of them may need to be treated. However, the level of assessment of HCV burden is very variable from one state to another and needs to be improved. For HCV prevention and management, the current national policies and practices are very heterogeneous. The surveillance systems for HCV developed in the EU countries need to be Improved and harmonized before the establishment of a European surveillance network. Conclusions: Based on these findings, there is need to promote, coordinate, support and fund European collaborations for this major public health problem.