Globally, hepatitis C is the most common cause of death among people who use drugs. More than three times as many people in this group die of hepatitis C compared to those who die of HIV/AIDS.
Minister of International Development Dag-Inge Ulstein emphasised that the resolution will play an important role in strengthening international efforts to prevent and treat hepatitis C related to drug use.
‘Increased efforts are needed if the international community is to achieve the WHO’s goal of eradicating viral hepatitis as a public health problem by 2030. In addition, this will help the many often very vulnerable people in poor countries who use drugs – and their families,’ said Mr Ulstein.
There is also a high prevalence of hepatitis C among current or former drug users in Norway.
‘We have found this treatment to be effective, and it is now given to everyone who has hepatitis C. The treatment also has a preventive effect, as patients are completely cured and no longer infectious, but it is also important to continue with other preventive measures,’ Minister of Health Bent Høie said.
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