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. 2018 Oct 27;10(10):743-751.
doi: 10.4254/wjh.v10.i10.743.

Comparison of hepatitis C virus testing recommendations in high-income countries

Risha Irvin  1 , Kathleen Ward  2 , Tracy Agee  2 , Noele P Nelson  3 , Claudia Vellozzi  3 , David L Thomas  2 , Alexander J Millman  3
Affiliations

Comparison of hepatitis C virus testing recommendations in high-income countries

Risha Irvin et al. World J Hepatol. .

Abstract

Aim: To investigate hepatitis C virus (HCV) testing recommendations from the United States and other high-income countries.

Methods: A comprehensive search for current HCV testing recommendations from the top quartile of United Nations Human Development Index (HDI) countries (very high HDI) was performed using Google and reviewed from May 1 - October 30, 2014 and re-reviewed April 1 - October 2, 2017.

Results: Of the 51 countries identified, 16 had HCV testing recommendations from a government body or recommendations issued collaboratively between a government and a medical organization. Of these 16 countries, 15 had HCV testing recommendations that were primarily risk-based and highlight behaviors, exposures, and conditions that are associated with HCV transmission in that region. In addition to risk-based testing, the HCV Guidance Panel (United States) incorporates recommendations for a one-time test for individuals born during 1945-1965 (the birth cohort) without prior ascertainment of risk into their guidance. In addition to the United States, six other countries either have an age-based testing recommendation or recommend one-time testing for all adults independent of risk factors typical of the region.

Conclusion: This review affirmed the similarities of the HCV Guidance Panel's guidance with those of recommendations from very high HDI countries.

Keywords: Guidelines; Hepatitis C; Mass screening; Recommendations; Testing.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict-of-interest statement: Dr. Irvin has nothing to disclose. The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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