New Screening Recommendations for Hepatitis C Virus Infection

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force has broadened screening recommendations to include all adults through age 79.

Sponsoring Organization: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)

Background

Since the last hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening recommendations were issued in 2012–2013 (NEJM JW Gen Med Aug 15 2013 and Ann Intern Med 2013; 158:349), two important developments have transformed the field: First, development of direct-acting antiviral (DAA)–based HCV drugs has shortened treatment durations and dramatically improved treatment outcomes, and second, the opioid epidemic is putting many more young adults at ongoing risk for infection. The previous USPSTF guideline recommended routine screening for people born between 1945 and 1965; this new guideline broadens the age group considerably.

Key Points

Highlights of the new recommendations include:

All adu…

Reviewing Author

Abigail Zuger, MD

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose