How can Canada improve its progress towards eliminating Hepatitis C by 2030?

## Canada Unlikely to Reach WHO’s Hepatitis C Elimination Target

Canada is facing a significant hurdle in its quest to eliminate the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) by 2030, a new study has revealed. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Waterloo, suggests that the country is lagging behind other developed nations and may not meet the original target set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Screening and Treatment Alone Not Enough

The study found that Canada’s current approach to HCV elimination, which focuses solely on screening and treatment, is not sufficient. Dr. William W.L. Wong, the study’s lead author, emphasized that harm-reduction strategies are essential to curb the spread of the virus. These strategies include implementing clean needle distribution programs, reducing the sharing of drug use equipment, and addressing other high-risk exposures.

“We need to screen for the disease earlier and encourage harm-reduction strategies be put in place. If patients do not change high-risk behaviors, such as sharing needles, HCV re-infection can be high even after they were cured the first time,” said Dr. Wong.

Mathematical Modeling Predicts Failure

Using a mathematical modeling system, Dr. Wong and his team determined that Canada’s current policies will not meet the WHO’s target of HCV elimination by 2030. The model simulated Ontario’s population, including individuals with HCV, and tracked the transmission of the virus under various risk scenarios.

Dr. Wong explained, “Similar to the game, The Sims, where you build a dynamic population, we simulated Ontario’s population and looked at how the disease is transmitted and how it moves around the population with different risk activities triggered.”

Harm-Reduction Strategies Crucial

The researchers recommend that policymakers prioritize harm-reduction strategies in their efforts to eliminate HCV. These strategies have been shown to be effective in reducing the transmission of the virus and improving the health outcomes of people who inject drugs.

The study’s findings highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to HCV elimination that goes beyond screening and treatment. By implementing harm-reduction strategies, investing in prevention programs, and addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to HCV transmission, Canada can significantly improve its chances of achieving the WHO’s target.

### Other Related Infections Considered

The researchers plan to expand their work to include other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections, such as hepatitis B virus, human papillomavirus, and HIV. By considering these infections collectively, policymakers can develop more comprehensive and effective strategies to protect public health.