Commenting on today’s announcement that the Department of Health will develop a national liver strategy, Charles Gore, Chief Executive of The Hepatitis C Trust, said:
“We are delighted that the Department of Health has acknowledged the ever growing threat of liver disease to which viral hepatitis is a major contributor.At last they are going to tackle it head-on with a national strategy.It is a scandal that hepatitis C is preventable and treatable yet increasing numbers of patients continue to die every year.
“A national liver strategy is the only way to stop the ever rising death toll from hepatitis C.This is exactly what patients around the country have been calling for.
“Now the Department of Health need to rise to the challenge and make sure the strategy saves lives.It needs to find the tens of thousands of undiagnosed people who are living with hepatitis C unawares, and to improve treatment and support to all patients.
“The decision to appoint a National Clinical Director is crucial – liver disease needs a champion.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors
- Contact:
For more information of for an interview with Charles Gore, Chief Executive of The Hepatitis C Trust, please contact Jane Allen on 020 7089 6220.
- About hepatitis C in the UK:
Hepatitis C is an infection of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus. There are estimated to be between 250,000 and 466,000 people infected with hepatitis C in the UK. A recent survey of Strategic Health Authorities showed a post-code lottery of diagnosis and care across the country: http://www.hepcoutofcontrol.org.uk/home.html
Hepatitis C, one of the most common chronic blood-borne infections, is transmitted primarily through blood or blood products. Hepatitis C can be passed by piercing, tattoos, transfusion, injection, razors, sharing toothbrushes, dental work and by sharing notes. Patients can live for many years without experiencing symptoms, even though the virus can still be causing liver damage, and as a consequence a large number of patients remain undiagnosed.
There is no vaccine against hepatitis C, but treatment can achieve a cure in over half of patients.
- About The Hepatitis C Trust:
The Hepatitis C Trust is the national patient-run charity that provides a range of services offering support, information and representation for people with hepatitis C. The Trust is also committed to raising awareness and highlighting the advantages of getting tested.
The Hepatitis C Trust helpline is 0845 223 44 24
The Hepatitis C Trust website is www.hepctrust.org.uk
