According to the Stockholm-based European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), hepatitis C is the most common form of viral hepatitis in the EU. More than 29,000 cases were reported in 2005 against 6,800 for hepatitis B. In both cases, males are generally more affected than women. But whereas the number of cases of hepatitis B has been steadily decreasing on average over the last decade, hepatitis C cases are growing.
The main problem with hepatitis is that it remains very difficult to diagnose the virus. The chances for successful therapy are good provided that the virus is diagnosed early. But as the symptoms are very difficult to identify, hepatitis often leads to major complications, such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer in the case of hepatitis C.
In the statement made on 1 October, the ECDC reiterates its commitment to improve the EU disease surveillance programme. In this respect, the ECDC programme of activities involve:
a current review of surveillance systems in Member States and available epidemiological information on hepatitis B and C.
winter 2007-2008: proposal for a protocol setting standards for basic and enhanced hepatitis surveillance in the EU, to be discussed with stakeholders, experts and Member States during the winter.
2008: launch of a study to review the hepatitis screening policies and programmes in Member States.
For further information:
ECDC Statement for world hepatitis awareness day
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