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Title: Developments in Hepatitis Care: New CDC Recommendations and More Viral hepatitis continues to be a major concern in the field of infectious diseases. Recent research has emphasized the importance of testing and treatment for this disease. Healio has published 12 stories throughout 2023 highlighting developments in viral hepatitis research. This article presents a summary of these stories, providing valuable insights into the current state of hepatitis care. In a nationally representative survey, it was found that out of the over 2 million people with hepatitis C virus infection, only 68% were aware of their infection

This highlights the need for increased awareness and education regarding hepatitis C. The CDC has updated its guidance on hepatitis B testing, recommending that all adults in the U.S. be tested for HBV at least once in their lifetime. This marks the first update since 2008 and is aimed at ensuring early detection and appropriate management of this infection. To simplify the testing process for hepatitis C virus, the CDC now recommends completing the two-step testing process in a single visit. This eliminates the need for multiple visits, which often results in incomplete testing. A study revealed that testing rates for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C have increased among Medicaid enrollees initiating treatment for opioid use disorder

However, there are still missed opportunities, as three-quarters of enrollees were not tested for each condition. Cure rates for hepatitis C were found to be disappointingly low, with only 34% of diagnosed individuals in the United States being cured or cleared of the virus. This is compounded by the limited access to highly effective treatments. In an insightful Q&A, Dr. Anna Suk-Fong Lok discusses the challenges of finding a cure for hepatitis B. She highlights the priority areas of research that must be focused on to make progress towards a cure. Drug use and homelessness were found to significantly increase the risk of hepatitis C reinfection

The rates were particularly high among those who were experiencing homelessness at the time of treatment. Providing patients with a 90-day supply or a mixed duration supply of chronic hepatitis B treatments was associated with higher adherence rates among commercially insured individuals. Researchers have discovered the potential of a dried blood spot test to detect HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C in a single drop of blood. This test offers convenience and efficiency in diagnosing these infections. Health insurance coverage significantly increases the likelihood of women initiating hepatitis C treatment compared to those without insurance. This highlights the importance of access to healthcare services in hepatitis management. HCV treatment and cure have shown promise in improving the response rates to the HBV vaccine in nonresponders. Approximately 70% of previous nonresponders developed a response after HCV treatment and cure. A study assessing a national cohort of U.S

veterans with chronic hepatitis B found that only about half were on antiviral therapy. The study also identified potential factors associated with the lack of timely treatment. These developments in hepatitis care, including the new CDC recommendations and research findings, shed light on the ongoing efforts to improve testing, treatment, and outcomes for individuals living with viral hepatitis.