Understanding Barriers to Hepatitis C Antiviral Treatment in Low-Middle-Income Countries

Background: Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have significantly reduced Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) transmission and improved health outcomes since their FDA approval in 2011. Despite these advances, over 70 million people remain untreated globally, with a disproportionately high burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods: Through a structured search of open access informational sources and an informal peer-reviewed literature review, HCV treatment barriers were identified, compiled, and analyzed. Current challenges to HCV treatment were organized by themes and summarized as recommendations for LMICs. Results: Key obstacles to HCV treatment in LMICs are identified, with the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of the disease linked to inadequate funding and healthcare infrastructure for screening and testing, poor awareness among healthcare providers, and the misinformation and stigmatization of HCV disease. Discussion: Recommendations for LMICs to attenuate treatment obstacles include distributing educational media, implementing mobile clinics, and fostering international partnerships. The successful implementation of these interventions has been demonstrated in developed countries. Conclusions: To achieve the WHO's goal of eliminating HCV as a public health threat by 2030, concerted efforts are needed by LMICs to reduce gaps in care and ensure that all patients are afforded access to testing and treatment.