Progress report on access to hepatitis C treatment. Focus on overcoming barriers in low- and middle-income countries

Increased access to highly effective direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for the treatment of infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is revolutionizing the prospect of ending HCV epidemics. Globally, the number of people who initiated DAA-based treatment for HCV rose between 2015 and 2016, from approximately 1 million to 1.5 million.

This report updates the first edition, published in 2016, and reviews the progress countries have made in expanding access to life-saving DAAs. The report reviews the main challenges countries face and describes recent developments in relation to five key factors that determine access to DAA medicines: affordability, quality assurance, regulatory approval, government commitment and financing. It highlights key areas for action by ministries of health and other government decision-makers, pharmaceutical manufacturers and technical partners.