In 2022, the WHO estimated that 58 million people were living with chronic hepatitis C (HCV), yet only 26% were aware of their status, and even fewer had received treatment. Despite advancements in treatment, low awareness and limited access to testing services keep many individuals undiagnosed.
Building on the HIV self-testing insights from the STAR Initiative, the WHO released guidance on HCV self-testing in 2021, highlighting key research priorities for implementation. This session will feature researchers and implementers from the STAR Hepatitis C Self-Testing Consortium, who will share findings on the feasibility, acceptability, accuracy, costs and cost-effectiveness of HCV self-testing across various settings. The discussion will also explore how these findings are influencing policy and guidance at the country level.