World Hepatitis Alliance launches HCV Quest

The World Hepatitis Alliance has created HCV Quest, a global survey that provides a forum for patients with hepatitis C virus, according to an announcement on the European Association for the Study of the Liver website.

The survey, designed by a focus group and in part by Markus Peck-Radosavljevic, MD, EASL secretary-general, is for patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and asks questions about their experiences with the virus, care and treatment. It also invites them to share their thoughts on challenges they have faced since being diagnosed with HCV.

Markus Peck-Radosavljevic

“This data is a powerful tool for patient advocacy groups,” Peck-Radosavljevic said in a statement on the website. “EASL … and the World Hepatitis Alliance can now highlight where improvements are needed to reduce the burden of the disease on patients and give them a strong voice in public and political conversations.”

“Monitoring infection rates and the medical impact of the disease on individuals is one thing, but quantifying its true impact is something we achieve by talking to patients, by giving them the chance to express their thoughts,” Charles Gore, WHA president, said on the website. “The survey explores patients’ beliefs about how hepatitis has impacted their education, working life and lifestyle choices. This information is critical to help policymakers understand the need to tackle it.”

The survey is available in 35 languages, and the WHA has received patient input from 45 countries, according to EASL.