CAP-Hepatitis C Press Releases
Press Release: November 5, 2011
Congress Stirred to Save Millions of American Lives and Consequent Billions in Future Healthcare Costs
The Viral Hepatitis Testing Act of 2011 was introduced in both Houses of Congress today potentially saving billions in taxpayer dollars.
Read the complete Press Release PDF format
NVHR: Administration’s 2012 Budget Proposal Represents ‘Sea Change’ In National Response to Viral Hepatitis Epidemic
Budget Proposal Calls for $5 Million Increase For State-based Surveillance, Screening & Treatment Programs
NVHR Press Briefing : 10-14-10
NVHR: New Report Confirms
Chronic Viral Hepatitis Is Winnable Public Health Battle
NVHR Press Briefing: 10-4-10
NVHR Blasts Arizona Medicaid’s ‘Inhumane’ Policy Depriving
Hepatitis C Patients Liver Transplant CoveragePatient Advocates, Noted Liver Physician Criticize Arizona Policy as Lacking Scientific Basis
NVHR Press Briefing: 9-30-10
NVHR: In Fighting for ‘Six Winnable Battles,’
CDC May Lose the Nation's Overall Public-Health War
Washington, DC – In response to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Director Dr. Thomas Frieden”s release of "six winnable battles" in health care,
Ms. Lorren Sandt, Chair of the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) and Executive Director of Caring Ambassadors Program, based in Portland, Oregon, released the following statement: Full Press Release
NVHR Press Briefing: 9-24-10
NVHR Welcomes Support of National Hepatitis C Advocacy Council In Fight to Address Chronic Viral Hepatitis
NVHR Press Briefing: 7-22-10
NVHR Responds to New York Times Article on Hepatitis C Testing
NVHR Press Briefing: 7-14-10
NVHR: Administration’s National HIV/AIDS Strategy Recognizes Need
For Better Care Coordination for Individuals Co-Infected with Viral Hepatitis
NVHR Press Briefing: 6-17-10
NVHR Applauds House Oversight Committee for Examining Bipartisan Solutions to Fighting the Viral Hepatitis Epidemic
NVHR Press Briefing: 6-2-10
NVHR Applauds World Health Organization Resolution Calling for Comprehensive Strategy to Fight Viral Hepatitis Worldwide
NVHR Press Briefing: 5-19-2010
NVHR On World Hepatitis Day 2010, NVHR Capitol Hill Rally Attracts Hundreds of Americans & Members of Congress
To Support Increased Federal Funding for Viral Hepatitis
CAP-Hepatitis C News
Week Ending January 29, 2012
Cortland sees spike in Hepatitis C in drug users
Cortland, N.Y. – “Public health officials are investigating a surge of Hepatitis C cases in Cortland County showing up mostly among people under 35 who shoot drugs.”
Hepatitis C warning for HIV-positive men
A new report is calling for raised awareness of the risks posed by hepatitis C to gay men living with HIV.
“The National AIDS Trust said the implications of hepatitis C and HIV co-infection on health can be severe, with liver disease one of the major causes of serious illness and fatality in HIV-positive people.”
VIHA moves cautiously to step up efforts for harm reduction
“South Nanaimo residents reacted angrily in 2007, when public health nurses in vans started showing up in alleys, handing out crack-pipe mouthpieces and other supplies to addicts.”
The sharp side: B.C. hospitals aim to safeguard health professionals from sharp instruments
“Five thousand health professionals, including hundreds of nurses and doctors in operating rooms, are stabbed by sharp medical instruments each year in B.C.”
No vaccine for Hep C
“In Tuesday’s front-page coverage about travel vaccinations there is one serious error that needs correction. The picture accompanying the article shows a nurse holding two vials filled with vaccines. The caption lists one of those vaccines as being for Hep C.”
Week Ending January 22, 2012
New Hepatitis C Support Helpline - 877-HELP-4-HEP (877-435-7443)
“The Support Partnership, a collaboration of nationally recognized hepatitis C organizations, has launched a peer-managed toll-free helpline for people affected by hepatitis C. Experienced counselors provide information, emotional support, referrals and optional follow-up assistance to help callers navigate the complexities of screening, testing, treatment decisions and treatment.”
Hepatitis C treatment with antivirals is effective: study
“A major advance in treating hepatitis C appears to be on the horizon. Researchers reported Wednesday that combining two antiviral medications was effective in stopping the infection in some patients who were not helped by the traditional treatment.”
Community Health Center launches new video conferencing technology
MIDDLETOWN. CT – “Community Health Center unveiled a new tool Friday that will allow it to lend the expertise of CHC HIV specialist to other CHC clinics that do not have such specialists.”
Funding for needle exchange programs drying up
Advocates say the public should consider the cost-effectiveness of the programs, which help to prevent the spread of diseases.
AUGUSTA – “Hypodermic needle exchange programs in Maine, which collected more than a quarter–million syringes in a recent 12-month period, are running into serious funding problems because of the poor economy, say officials who oversee the programs.”
Hepatitis C infection identified as leading risk factor for HCC
“Liver–scarring diseases such as cirrhosis from alcohol consumption continue to present a high risk for the development hepatocellular carcinoma, but hepatitis C infection has been identified as the leading risk factor, according study results published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings.”
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company Hepatitis C Pills Clear Virus Without Injections
“Bristol–Myers Squibb Company today announced the full results, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, from a Phase II clinical trial in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 who had not responded to prior therapy with PEG–interferon alfa and ribavirin (‘null responders’1). The study demonstrated that its primary endpoint of the achievement of sustained virologic response 12–weeks post–treatment (SVR12) is possible with a direct–acting antiviral (DAA)–only combination containing daclatasvir and asunaprevir (4/11 patients, including two of two patients infected with HCV genotype 1b). This study was the first study to demonstrate the possibility that hepatitis C can be cured (defined as sustained virologic response 48 weeks post–treatment or SVR48) without the use of interferon. The study also demonstrated that 100 percent (10/10) of these difficult–to–treat patients dosed with quadruple therapy containing daclatasvir and asunaprevir in combination with PEG–Interferon alfa and ribavirin achieved SVR12.”
Week Ending January 16, 2012
Enzyme blueprint may improve HIV, hep C treatment
LONDON: “The structure of a unique enzyme in the human body has been identified in a discovery that could lead to treatment against deadly viruses such as HIV and hepatitis C.”
Infection files: Body art: the good, the bad, and the deadly
“My good friend (I'll call her Dee) is a voiceover actress known for her throaty interpretation of a famous cartoon she-villain.”
FREE HIV and Hepatitis C testing coming to Guerneville
“The Drug Abuse Alternatives Center (DAAC), staffed by experienced and knowledgeable counselors and outreach workers, offers counseling and testing for HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C on a drop-in basis, and much more, and this coming January, their Big Blue Van will becoming to Guerneville.”
Idenix Seeks Partner for Hepatitis C Combination Drug, CEO Renaud Says
“Idenix Pharmaceuticals Inc. (IDIX), the developer of an experimental hepatitis C drug, is in talks to find a partner to create a combination treatment to fight the virus, Chief Executive Officer Ron Renaud said.”
Cuts slow, but won't stop research
“A proposal by Health Sciences North seeking $5 million to develop vaccines against peptic ulcers and hepatitis C, and to break nicotine addiction, has been scuttled by $66 million in cuts to the Ontario Research Fund.”
Hepatitis C drug set to give Cardiff University financial boost
“A university behind a treatment for hepatitis C could reap "substantial" financial benefits after the drug was acquired by a top US firm. The oral medication INX-189 was first prepared at Cardiff University
’s Welsh School of Pharmacy in 2008.”
Port Charlotte clinic offering free Hepatitis C treatment
PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. – “The saying goes nothing in life is free but for people in Charlotte County who suffer from Hepatitis C, getting treatment won't cost a dime.”
Week Ending January 9, 2012
Hepatitis C and new treatments
“Dr Omar el Sherif and Dr Orla M Crosbie examine the rates of hepatitis C in Ireland and report on the latest available treatments from the 2011 AASLD Annual Meeting in San Francisco.”
Bristol ups hepatitis C game in $2.5B acquisition
“Looking to angle in an a market that is growing fast, Bristol-Myers will spend $2.5 billion to acquire hepatitis C drug developer Inhibitex Inc., which saw its share price double in one day recently on early stage data of a treatment it is developing.”
Benitec Biopharma hepatitis C therapeutic pre-clinical results released
“Benitec Biopharma has received pre-clinical results on the use of the company’s gene silencing technology to develop a therapeutic for hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection.”
Promising Hepatitis C Vaccine Trial From Oxford University
“A hepatitis C vaccine trial conducted by researchers at world–renowned Oxford University is showing promising results, according to their report in Science Translational Medicine. This is an extremely heartening breakthrough, due to the fact that we have vaccines for hepatitis A and B, but hepatitis C has long eluded the scientific community. The reason for this is a virus constantly changing its appearance, confounding even the best and the brightest — a constantly moving target.”
Mayo Clinic Studies Identify Risk Factors In Rising Trend Of Liver Cancer
“Doctors have known for years that the incidence of deadly liver cancer is on the rise, but what is causing that trend has remained a mystery. Two recent Mayo Clinic studies published in the January issue of Mayo Clinic Proceedings offer a clearer picture of the rise of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), or liver cancer, which has tripled in the U.S. in the last three decades and has a 10 to 12 percent five–year survival rate when detected in later stages.”
Achillon receives fast-track designation for hepatitis C drug
FDA grants designation to ACH-1625
“The Food and Drug Administration has granted fast-track designation to a drug currently under development by Achillon Pharmaceuticals for hepatitis C, the company said.”
Hepatitis C Needs Higher Profile, Health Workers Say
“A middle-aged man hesitantly enters the CORNER Project syringe exchange program’s office on 176th Street and Wadsworth Avenue in Washington Heights.”
Week Ending January 1, 2012
NovaTarg preps for 2012 IND filing for hepatitis C drug candidate
“Drug discovery startup NovaTarg is ramping up preclinical research in preparation of an expected investigational new drug application filing for the company’s first drug candidate – a new hepatitis C treatment .”
Medical Waste Poses Serious Threat to Scavengers
NAIROBI – “For Collins Otieno, the onset of a new day ushers in mixed fortunes that can either earn him some money or expose him to infection, as he struggles to make ends meet by scavenging for waste.”
Ont. salon's unsterile piercings prompt health warning
WINDSOR, Ont. – “Health authorities are warning customers who received body piercings from a Chatham, Ont., nail salon to get tested for viruses including HIV.”
Celebrities and the Dormant Hepatitis C Virus
“The Center for the Biology of Chronic Disease (CBCD) wishes to use the experience of certain celebrities to educate the public about the dormant hepatitis C virus.”
CDC reports hepatitis C transmission via transplants
“The CDC reported Thursday that organs and tissue taken from the body of a middle-aged Kentucky man turned out to have been infected with hepatitis C virus and cited four instances in which transplant recipients became infected with that virus.”
Scynexis aims to raise $15M; hepatitis C drug candidate in phase 2 trials
“Drug discovery and development firm Scynexis, which is moving forward on a new hepatitis C treatment, has raised $5 million in a fundraising effort targeted to reach up to $15 million.”
Liver Disease Bulletin: Should Iron Be in Your Multi-Vitamin?
“Based on their ability to support the body’s wellness, there are many reasons why someone with chronic liver disease would take a multi-vitamin. Upon first glance, most multi-vitamins appear to be similar. However, closer inspection reveals that quite a few multi-vitamins contain iron. Unless specifically struggling with an iron deficiency, those with chronic liver disease are advised to double-check their multi-vitamin to make sure iron is not listed as an ingredient.”
Week Ending December 18, 2011
Congress to Restore Federal Syringe Exchange Funding Ban as Part of 2012 Spending Package
“As part of the 2012 spending package being voted on today, Congress is restoring a ban on using federal funding for syringe exchange programs that reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, and other infectious diseases. The ban, enacted in the 1980s and repealed in 2009, was largely responsible for hundreds of thousands of Americans contracting HIV/AIDS directly or indirectly from the sharing of used syringes. Advocates warn that restoring the ban will result in thousands of Americans contracting HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C or other infectious diseases next year alone.”
Merck Sharpe and Dohme and Roche commence HCV studies
“Merck Sharpe and Dohme has begun a new clinical partnership with Roche on the development of new therapy options for hepatitis C virus (HCV).”
100 screened for deadly Hepatitis C
“It has screened 624 Stoke-on-Trent men and women between the ages of 18 and 64 since July last year. Of those people, 100 have been treated for Hepatitis C and 43 have been completely cured and discharged.”
Pharmasset, Inc. (VRUS) to Change Design of Hepatitis C Treatment Study, Says Trial Change Won't Affect Gilead Sciences, Inc. (GILD) Takeover
“Pharmasset, Inc. announced today that the company will amend the design of the QUANTUM Phase 2b trial of the guanine nucleotide analog PSI-938 and discontinue all treatment arms with a regimen containing PSI-938.”
Pendleton needle program aims to prevent disease
PENDLETON, Ore. (AP) – “The 20–something woman approached the van looking jittery and conflicted. Seeing that the back of the delivery–style truck was open, she meandered there. The boxy truck, with Umatilla-Morrow Alternatives Health Van written on the side, was parked at Pendleton's Stillman Park.”
U.S. Will Not Finance New Research on Chimps
“The National Institutes of Health on Thursday suspended all new grants for biomedical and behavioral research on chimpanzees and accepted the first uniform criteria for assessing the necessity of such research. Those guidelines require that the research be necessary for human health, and that there be no other way to accomplish it.”
Study: Hep C Doesn’t Impair Women’s Cognitive Faculties
“Infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) doesn't damage women's cognitive function—mental tasks such as attention, memory and the abilities to solve problems and make decisions—according to Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) data published in the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and reported by aidsmap. The researchers confirmed, however, that HIV infection alone is independently associated with cognitive impairment.”
Boehringer Ingelheim Completes Patient Entry For Phase III Trial Program In Hepatitis C
“According to Boehringer Ingelheim's announcement, the company's large-scale Phase III clinical trial program for BI210335, an investigational, oral protease inhibitor for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) has randomized the final patient for treatment.”
Week Ending December 11, 2011
BMS and Tibotec plan all-oral hepatitis C regimen
Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) has teamed up with Johnson & Johnson's (J&J) Tibotec subsidiary to develop a combination oral therapy for hepatitis C.
Liver experts: Baby boomers especially should be tested for Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a silent killer. Experts advise general public tested.
Experts at Montefiore Medical Center are urging the general public to be tested for Hepatitis C, especially baby boomers that may be at high risk from past exposure to the virus.
Bristol-Myers, J&J form hepatitis C partnership
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. said Friday it will collaborate with a unit of Johnson & Johnson to study a potential combination therapy for chronic hepatitis C.
Delhi is first city to launch Hepatitis C screening
New Delhi: Delhi on Sunday became the first city in the country to begin screening for the ‘silent killer’ Hepatitis C.
Green tea flavonoid may prevent reinfection with hepatitis C virus following liver transplantation
German researchers have determined that epigallocatechin–3–gallate (EGCG)–a flavonoid found in green tea–inhibits the hepatitis C virus (HCV) from entering liver cells. Study findings available in the December issue of Hepatology, a journal published by Wiley–Blackwell on behalf of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, suggest that EGCG may offer an antiviral strategy to prevent HCV reinfection following liver transplantation.
Ottawa's crack pipe exchange is working, study finds
Ottawa’s crack pipe exchange program is reducing sharing of the drug paraphernalia in the city, which should help reduce the spread of HIV and Hepatitis C, according to a study released Thursday.
OraQuick HCV Test Gets Clearance for Wider Use
Good news for doctor’s offices, outreach clinics and community–based organizations looking to use OraSure Technologies’ rapid test for hepatitis C virus (HCV): The test has been granted a CLIA waiver, meaning that its use is no longer limited to professionals who have received laboratory certification from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Hepatitis-C Screening Can Save Lives
It’s the most common chronic infection in the U.S., affecting more than three million people. But nearly 75 percent of them don't know they have hepatitis-C — which can silently cause liver damage for years. Now, research shows routine screening for hepatitis-C can save many lives each year. FOX 9 health expert Dr. Archelle Georgiou has more.
Sector Snap: Hepatitis C drugmakers
A William Blair & Co. analyst said Tuesday that the market for hepatitis C treatment will expand quickly over the next decade, and Gilead Sciences Inc. could take a commanding lead because of its pending acquisition of drug developer Pharmasset.
Hepatitis common at Washington Penitentiary
It is arguably one of the most private of taxpayer-funded hospitals. And despite offering free medical care, the price of admission would be considered inordinately high by most.
Week Ending November 27, 2011
About 10 million people infected with Hepatitis- C in Pakistan
KARACHI: Viral hepatitis is affecting about 400 million people, out of which one third cases are due to Hepatitis-C Virus (HCV) alone.
“In Pakistan about 10 million people, which is about 6 per cent of the total population, is affected with hepatitis–C.”
Bread of Healing Clinic connects patients with needed drugs, care
Lenora Johnson thought she had broken the string of rejections and finally landed health insurance until she read the fine print.
“"They said they would accept me, but they would not treat my pre-existing condition," said Johnson, whose reason for wanting coverage in the first place was to address her worsening hepatitis C, a viral disease that causes severe swelling and slowly destroys the liver.”
University launches iphone app for hepatitis treatment
“Hepatitis C was first discovered in the 1980s when it became apparent that there was a new virus causing liver damage. Hepatitis C causes inflammation and swelling of the liver. It is estimated that over 170million individuals – representing 3% of the world’s population – are chronically infected with the Hepatitis C virus. Statistically, as many people are infected with HCV as are with HIV.”
Disposal of Hypodermic Needles Difficult In Falmouth
Massachusetts – “Falmouth residents who use injections to manage their health care at home have no environmentally friendly options in town to dispose of needles.”
Neglect, ignorance raise HCV infection in Vietnam
“The number of Hepatitis C patients in Vietnam is increasing, and around half a million people are estimated to develop cirrhosis and liver cancer this year, experts said at a recent seminar.”
Province to bring in regulations for tattoo parlours
Regulations are in the works for Nova Scotia’s body art industry.
“Services such tattooing, piercing or scarification will fall under the Body Art Act, which Health Minister Maureen MacDonald introduced in the legislature Wednesday afternoon.”
Hep C deaths outpace HIV; new drugs, services for coinfected
“Deaths related to hepatitis C have outpaced those due to HIV/AIDS since 2007, researchers reported at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases meeting earlier this month in San Francisco.”
Hepatitis Screening Offered With Routine Colonoscopy Accepted by 75%
NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. – “A screening colonoscopy can provide a convenient opportunity to simultaneously test older adults for hepatitis, based on a study of 500 patients, 75% of whom agreed to blood tests for hepatitis A, B, and C.”
May I Be Frank: A Life-Changing Documentary
“Talk about life-changing documentaries, and there have been a lot in the past few years. This is one to add to the list for sure!”
Hepatitis C drug market in Mexico expected to double to $104 million in 2015
““The hepatitis C virus (HCV) market in Mexico will nearly double from $56 million in 2010 to $104 million in 2015. According to advisory firm Decision Resources’ new Emerging Markets report, hepatitis C Virus in Mexico, an increase in the size of the prevalent HCV population in Mexico and the launch of new HCV-specific protease inhibitors will contribute to market growth.”
Bill that would allow over the counter sales of hypodermic needles advances in N.J. Assembly
“An Assembly panel has advanced a bill to allow the sale of small quantities of hypodermic needles over the counter in order to decrease the spread of bloodborne diseases such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C.”
Week Ending November 20, 2011
Gilead Sciences to Buy Pharmasset for About $11 Billion
“Gilead Sciences Inc. agreed to acquire drug developer Pharmasset Inc. for nearly $11 billion, placing a big bet on the growing market for new treatments for hepatitis C infections.”
Drinking coffee helps hepatitis C treatment
Drinking coffee may help treat hepatitis C, according to a new study.
“Freedman N. D. of the National Institutes of Health in Rockville, Maryland and colleagues reported in the June 2011 issue of Gastroenterology that drinking three or more cups of coffee per day helped hepatitis c treatment.”
Achillion in Talks With Potential Buyers or Partners, Chief Executive Says
“Achillion Pharmaceuticals Inc. (ACHN), expecting clinical data on three experimental hepatitis C therapies, is in “advanced discussions” with potential partners and acquirers, Chief Executive Officer Michael Kishbauch said.”
Miami VA Hospital Chief Ousted
MIAMI – “The head of the Miami Veterans Affairs hospital was removed from her position Wednesday, more than two years after 2,500 veterans were told the colonoscopies they had there might have been performed with improperly cleaned equipment.”
A Doctor’s Bout With Hepatitis C
“I had no idea when I went to medical school back in the mid-’70s that I would become the embodiment of the phrase “Physician, heal thyself.” But that’s precisely what happened.”
Milk Thistle Extract Comparable to Placebo in Hep C Liver Enzyme Study
“Silymarin, an extract of milk thistle (Carduus marianus), had no benefit on levels of the liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in people living with hepatitis C, according to a new study reported Tuesday, November 8, by researchers at the 62nd annual meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases in San Francisco.”
Week Ending November 13, 2011
New PI Effective, Safe in HCV Trial
“An investigational hepatitis C virus (HCV) drug — a second–generation protease inhibitor given once a day — was safe and effective in a phase IIB randomized trial, a researcher said here.”
Hepatitis C Now More Deadly than AIDS in United States
HCV Testing to Be Recommended for Baby Boomers
“Hepatitis C, or HCV, is now causing more deaths in the United States than HIV/AIDS, as reported by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at the 62nd annual meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease. Due to the already–high number of baby boomers who die from HCV, the CDC is on the cusp of officially recommending one–time HCV testing for this age group.”
Rationale and design of a randomized controlled trial of directly observed hepatitis C treatment delivered in methadone clinics
“Most methadone–maintained injection drug users (IDUs) have been infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), but few initiate HCV treatment. Physicians may be reluctant to treat HCV in IDUs because of concerns about treatment adherence, psychiatric comorbidity, or ongoing drug use.”
Merck highlights updated pipeline
“The firm’s late–stage pipeline consists of 32 Phase II and Phase III candidates including new molecular entities and combination programmes for Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and hepatitis C.”
Boehringer Ingelheim believes that one of its investigational drugs for liver disease hepatitis C (HCV) could shorten patients’ treatment time and help in hard-to-treat cases.
“The treatment of hepatitis C has moved forward recently, with Janssen’s Incivo (telaprevir) and Merck and Roche’s Victrelis (boceprevir) both recently launched in Europe.”
Study Explores Economic Cost of Hepatitis C Patients with Advanced Liver Disease
“Healthcare costs for hepatitis C patients with end-stage liver disease are nearly 2.5 times higher than those in the early stages, according to a Henry Ford Hospital study. Although infection with the hepatitis C virus increases healthcare costs overall, the specific impact of the disease’s progressive severity on healthcare costs has previously not been well studied.”
Grants Awarded to Two Bay Area Organizations Working to Help Hepatitis C Patients
SF General Hospital Foundation and O.A.S.I.S. Clinic Among the 16 Non-profits Across the Country to Receive Funding
“Two Bay Area–based organizations, the San Francisco General Hospital Foundation and the O.A.S.I.S. Clinic, were awarded significant funding last week from Vertex Pharmaceuticals as part of a larger national initiative called Hep C Circle of Care.”
GSK presents phase III results for eltrombopag in hepatitis C virus related thrombo-cytopenia
“Findings from the ENABLE clinical trials, which evaluated the ability of eltrombopag to raise and maintain platelet levels in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and low platelet levels that would preclude initiation of interferon–based antiviral therapy, were presented today at the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases in San Francisco. Use of eltrombopag to treat thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic HCV infection is not approved anywhere in the world.”
Week Ending November 6, 2011
Putting an end to viral hepatitis: America’s silent killer
“There’s a silent killer loose in America. It is viral hepatitis, and it contributes to the death of 15,000 Americans every year. Most people don’t even know they have it until years later when it’s too late for any treatment to work.”
Positive Interim Data From a Phase 2 Study of INCIVEK™ (telaprevir) Combination Therapy in People Co-Infected with Hepatitis C and HIV Presented at The Liver Meeting®
“Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated today announced positive interim results from an ongoing Phase 2 study designed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of INCIVEK™ (telaprevir) tablets in combination with pegylated–interferon and ribavirin in people who are co-infected with chronic genotype 1 hepatitis C (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).”
Novartis DEB025 data showed viral clearance as early as six weeks and potential for interferon-free therapy in hepatitis C patients
“Novartis announced today new Phase II data showing that first-in-class DEB025 (alisporivir) may produce early viral elimination (or clearance) in interferon-free regimens (as monotherapy or with ribavirin), in previously untreated patients infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes 2 and 3[1].”
Interim Data for Merck's VICTRELIS™(boceprevir) in Prior Null Responder Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C Genotype 1 to be Presented at The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases 2011 Annual Meeting
“Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, today announced results of an interim analysis from the PROVIDE study, an open-label study examining the efficacy of VICTRELIS™ (boceprevir), the company's first–in–class, oral hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3/4A protease inhibitor, in combination with peginterferon alfa and ribavirin (P/R) in adult patients with chronic HCV genotype 1 who had a null response to prior P/R therapy.”
Tibotec to Present Final Safety and Efficacy Results From Phase 2b PILLAR Study of Once-Daily TMC435 in Late-Breaker at AASLD
“Tibotec Pharmaceuticals (Tibotec), one of the Janssen (Janssen) Pharmaceutical Companies, today will present results of the final analysis of PILLAR, a phase 2b study of the investigational hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS3/4A protease inhibitor TMC435 in treatment-naive patients with chronic genotype 1 HCV, as part of a late-breaker oral presentation at the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) in San Francisco, CA, USA.”
AASLD: African Americans Face Hep C ‘Triple Whammy’
“African Americans face a "triple whammy" when it comes to the hepatitis C virus, a researcher said here.”
Testing Hepatitis C By Birth Cohort Is Cost Effective: Study
“Birth cohort screening for hepatitis C is cost effective in the primary care setting which could save many thousands of lives each year, according to a new study.”
Pharmasset striding into Ph3 to lead pack of oral Hep C drug developers
“Pharmasset as grabbed a leading post in the race for new oral therapies against the hepatitis C virus, initiating a Phase III program involving a combo of its experimental drug PSI-7977 and ribavirin. Importantly, the combo requires no injections of interferon like current therapies for the liver–damaging disease.”
Week Ending October 29, 2011
Astex Pharmaceuticals to Present a Novel Targeted Approach to the Treatment of HCV at the AASLD Meeting
“Astex Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a pharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development and commercialization of novel therapeutics, announced that it will present data on its novel, first–in–class direct acting antiviral agents (DAA) against Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) at the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) in San Francisco, November 4-8, 2011.”
Encouraging Interim Trial Results for Hep C Non-Responders
“After just three months of a Phase 2b study, Setrobuvir with pegylated interferon and ribavirin led to undetectable viral levels in over three quarters of previous Hepatitis C treatment non–responders.”
Cytheris to announce Eclipse II Hepatitis C study data at AASLD meeting
“Cytheris, a biopharmaceutical company, has announced to present the data from an interim analysis of its Eclipse II Hepatitis C Phase I/IIa multicenter study at the 62nd annual meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD).”
Bayhealth presents hepatitis C support group meeting
Dover, Delaware – “Bayhealth Medical Center is offering a hepatitis C support group for patients, their families and friends.”
Victrelis Doubles Hepatitis C Treatment Response Rates In People With HIV
“Interim results from an ongoing Phase 2 clinical trial indicate that the hepatitis C drug Victrelis, in combination with peginterferon and ribavirin, resulted in twice as many HIV-positive patients achieving undetectable hepatitis C virus levels than peginterferon and ribavirin alone.”
Hepatitis is a public health concern
“In the United States, three types of hepatitis are most common – Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. Each of the three types is caused by a different virus. Although each has similar symptoms, they are spread differently and can have different effects. Hepatitis A is an acute or short – term infection that usually goes away on its own.”
Abbott Announces Positive Data from Mid-Stage Trial of Hepatitis C Therapy
“Abbott on Friday announced interim data from mid-stage trials of its experimental hepatitis C drug combination that suggested patients could achieve a viral cure without use of interferon and that the duration of therapy could be about half as long as conventional therapies.”
Week Ending October 23, 2011
Roche: New Era Of Hepatitis Therapies Creates Short-Term Threat, Long-Term Opportunity
Roche says it plans to pay $230 million for Anadys Pharmaceuticals, a San Diego-based developer of small molecule therapeutics for the treatment of hepatitis C. Anadys’ compounds could bring Roche closer to a cure for the viral infection, or at least closer to interferon-free treatment regimen, says Jean-Jacques Garaud, Global Head of Roche Pharma Research and Early Development.
Risks of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Elaborated in European Studies
Smoking, obesity, heavy alcohol consumption and chronic hepatitis B and C infection contribute to a large share of the disease burden of hepatocellular carcinoma in Europe. These are the findings of a cohort study published online October 21 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
New Boehringer Ingelheim Hepatitis C Data to Be Presented at AASLD
Boehringer Ingelheim announced today that new data from its hepatitis C virus (HCV) portfolio will be presented in scientific sessions at The Liver Meeting® 2011, the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD), taking place November 4 – November 8 in San Francisco, CA. The abstracts are published online at www.aasld.org.
Natalie Cole's hepatitis C talk turns personal, political
Here's one way to raise awareness about a debilitating disease. Openly share every frightful detail about how you contracted it and then, as this is Washington, top if off with a little political chatter. That basically sums of singer Natalie Cole's appearance at the National Press Club on Wednesday to talk about what she's been fighting since 2008, hepatitis C.
New, effective drugs treat Hepatitis C
Doctor calls results ‘very optimistic’
Hepatitis C patients at the Iowa Digestive Disease Center are seeing promising results from new medications to treat the disease that has had historically low cure rates.
Vertex’ Incivek Available In Canada
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. recently announced the availability of Incivek (telaprevir) in Canada, for treating patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C (HCV) with compensated liver disease, including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver). We note that even though the liver is damaged in patients with compensated liver disease, the liver continues to function.
Fears fish foot spa pedicures could spread HIV and hepatitis C
Fish foot spa pedicures could spread diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C, health experts have warned.
Week Ending October 16, 2011
The Hepatitis C Wars: What Docs Say About The Newest Meds
“Over the past several days, there has been a great deal of confusion about the extent to which physicians are embracing the new Incivek hepatitis C drug that is sold by Vertex Pharmaceuticals. The reason is that IMS Health, the market research firm that tracks prescriptions, has to restate mail-order activity for the drug for the last two weeks of September.”
Research reveals novel aspects of virus-fighting protein news
“Researchers at Yale University have for the first time described how a key protein involved in detecting and fighting viral infection interacts with invading viral molecules and stimulates an immune response. The protein, called RIG–I, has been the subject of intensive study worldwide, but its molecular structure was unknown until now.”
Taking a big step in the fight against blood-borne diseases
“New Jersey officials will have a golden opportunity in the remaining weeks of 2011 to extend and build upon a program that is helping reduce the number of people dying or suffering from HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C and other blood-borne diseases.”
Seven ways to reduce infections among people who inject drugs
“Seven interventions, one aim: no infections among people who inject drugs. In a new guidance document out today, EU agencies ECDC and the EMCDDA have joined forces to identify seven interventions to reduce and prevent infectious diseases in this vulnerable population. Many European countries have achieved substantial progress in recent years in preventing drug-related infections. Drug injecting, however, remains a major cause of infectious diseases across Europe. The interventions proposed range from the supply of injection equipment, testing and vaccination to the treatment of infections and drug dependence. These are best applied in combination and ideally in the same venue for maximum effect.”
Gene variant that helps hepatitis C treatment may hinder HIV treatment
“A common variant in a gene that doubles the chance of hepatitis C treatment working in people co–infected with HIV may also nearly double the risk of death in patients taking antiretroviral therapy.”
Anadys gets a boost from positive PhIIb hep C study
“Shares of San Diego–based Anadys got a bump this morning on the news that its interim data from a Phase IIb study of its hepatitis C drug setrobuvir looks positive, helping to position the developer as it angles for a place at the table for future drug cocktails.”
From Needle Stick to Cure for Hepatitis
“As doctors–in–training in the early 1990s, my friends and I became obsessed with the question of what we would do if we were pricked with an infected needle at work. We all had witnessed the inexorable, often painful march toward death of patients with hepatitis C and AIDS. We imagined the despair we would feel in that situation: the dashed hopes, the lost years of schooling and training. Many of us saw ourselves walking out of the hospital and not looking back. We couldn’t imagine throwing ourselves back into the fray.”
Hepatitis C Medication Adherence Is an Important Challenge, Study Shows
“Identifying and overcoming barriers to hepatitis C medication adherence is an essential component to treatment strategies, according to study results published online by Annals of Internal Medicine.”
UC San Diego School of Medicine Launches Hepatitis C Clinical Trials
Hepatitis C Community Forum to be held October 20
“A collaborative partnership between the UC San Diego Liver Center and Antiviral Research Center (AVRC) has resulted in 19 clinical trials for hepatitis C virus (HCV), focused on developing more effective and well–tolerated HCV treatments.”
Engineering Hope: Curing Hepatitis C
“The Center for Disease Control estimates that more than three million Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis C. In Dallas, University Of Texas Southwestern’s Dr. William Lee first started seeing patients more than twenty years ago, when the cure rate was just five percent. Now his patients are seeing a cure rate of close to 70 percent thanks to two new drugs that received FDA approval this summer.”
Week Ending October 9, 2011
Hepatitis C landscape changing as the new protease inhibitors adopted into clinical practice
“Three months after the launch of Vertex’s Incivek (telaprevir) and Merck & Co/Roche’s Victrelis (boceprevir), results from the second wave of research conducted by BioTrends Research Group (a Decision Resources unit) indicate strong interest and high demand for triple therapy with the new protease inhibitors.”
Pharmasset Announces Further Expansion of ELECTRON Trial in Hepatitis C
“Pharmasset, Inc. announced today the addition of two treatment arms to the ELECTRON trial of PSI–7977, a nucleotide analog polymerase inhibitor, for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (HCV).”
Hepatitis C Virus May Increase The Risk Of Brain Disorders And Death In People With HIV
“Results from a recent study indicate that brain disorders, particularly epilepsy and seizures, are more common in HIV-positive patients with hepatitis C virus than in patients with HIV alone. The risk of death was also higher for these individuals.”
Boehringer signs away HIV rights to focus on hep C
Boehringer Ingelheim has signed a deal giving Gilead Sciences exclusive worldwide rights to a major part of its HIV portfolio.
“The deal will allow Boehringer to concentrate on other areas of its virology portfolio, in particular hepatitis C where its lead compound – BI 201335 – moved into Phase III trials earlier this year.”
Health Watch: New Hep C treatment could improve cure rates
“Two new medications are giving hope to those affected by Hepatitis C. In this week's "Health Watch," NewsChannel 10's Michelle Langowski has more on the treatment expected to improve cure rates.”
Announcements: CDC Symposium on Hepatitis C Laboratory Testing and Surveillance — December 1 — 2, 2011
“The Food and Drug Administration recently approved several highly efficacious drugs for treating persons infected with hepatitis C, serving as an additional impetus for improving efforts to screen for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. On December 1—2, 2011, CDC's Division of Viral Hepatitis will host a symposium titled, Identification, Screening, and Surveillance of HCV Infections in the Era of Improved Therapy for Hepatitis C, where international experts will present their latest perspectives and findings regarding HCV screening and surveillance, and roundtable discussions will be held to promote an exchange of ideas.”
Hepatitis C: Session sheds light on silent disease
New Mexico – “Hepatitis C is not a new disease. But more and more people, primarily in the baby boomer population, are just finding out that they've been living with it for years.”
Obesity May Explain Liver Cancer Hike Among Latinos
“A combination of risk factors may be driving a large increase in liver cancer among Latinos in the United States, researchers said at a conference sponsored by the American Association for Cancer Research.”
Week Ending October 2, 2011
Hepatitis C in the U.S. May Be Underestimated by Over a Million
“In the United States, the number of people who have been infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) may have been undercounted by a whopping 1.1 million, according to a paper published in the September 2011 edition of Liver International. Epidemiologists believe that at least 5.2 million people in the United States are HCV antibody positive—meaning that they were infected at one time, although they may not have developed chronic hepatitis C—an increase of 1.1 million over The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) estimate of 4.1 million cases.”
Updated Hepatitis C Practice Guidelines Now Available from AASLD
“On Monday, September 26, 2011, the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases published online at its journal Hepatology's website (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/hep.24641/full ) an update to its practice guidelines for hepatitis C – “An Update on Treatment of Genotype 1 Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection: 2011 Practice Guideline by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.” AASLD is the premiere organization for research and education in the area of liver disease. The authors of the update are Marc Ghany, David R. Nelson, Doris B. Strader, David L. Thomas, and Leonard B. Seeff, all of whom are thought leaders in the field of hepatology.”
Shorter triple drug hepatitis C drug regimen effective
“A triple therapy regimen consisting of telaprevir (Incivek, Vertex) administered during the first 12 weeks followed by 24 weeks of peginterferon alfa and ribavirin was noninferior to the same regimen administered for 48 weeks among patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.”
Research Yields Unprecedented Insight into Antiviral Immune Response Findings Published in Nature by Researchers at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
“Many viruses infecting humans including influenza virus, hepatitis C virus, West Nile virus, rabies and measles viruses contain a ribonucleic acid (RNA) genome.”
Hepatitis C Testing Initiative
The "Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C" initiative is a nationwide effort by Major League Baseball to bring attention to the causes and treatment of Hepatitis C.
“OraSure Technologies recently co–sponsored the "Step Up to The Plate Against Hepatitis C" initiative as part of a nationwide effort by Major League Baseball to bring attention to the causes and treatment of Hepatitis C at several ballparks throughout the country. Sponsored by Merck, the American Liver Foundation, Coalition of Positive Health Empowerment and OraSure, the program offers free hepatitis C testing and promotes education and support for the prevention, diagnosis and management of hepatitis C.”
Virus has Las Vegas police detective preaching precaution
“Las Vegas police detective Kenny Nogle talked about how he got his affairs in order before he took a bullet.”
Report highlights ill health suffered by homeless people
“Depression, dental decay and the threat to health from alcohol and drug use feature heavily among homeless people, almost half of whom suffer from both physical and mental ill health, according to a report.”
Hepatitis C: Session sheds light on silent disease
“Hepatitis C is not a new disease. But more and more people, primarily in the baby boomer population, are just finding out that they've been living with it for years. Hepatitis C is not a new disease. But more and more people, primarily in the baby boomer population, are just finding out that they've been living with it for years.”
Vertex to Present New Data from Hepatitis C Development Program at AASLD Annual Meeting – Late-Breaker Presentations Include Phase 2 Data from INCIVEK-Based Combination Regimen in HIV/HCV Co-Infection and Short Duration Treatment with a Four-Drug Regimen Including INCIVEK and VX-222
“Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated today announced that abstracts from its hepatitis C program, including two late-breaking posters from studies of INCIVEK(TM) (telaprevir) tablets and VX-222, were accepted for presentation at The Liver Meeting(R), the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) in San Francisco, November 4-8, 2011.”
Mallory-Denk Bodies on Biopsy Predict Fibrosis Progression in HCV
“In patients who have chronic hepatitis C and undergo liver biopsy, the presence of Mallory-Denk bodies – hepatocyte cytoplasmic inclusions that occur in several chronic liver diseases – is independently associated with progression of liver fibrosis, Dr. Mina O. Rakoski and her colleagues reported in the October issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.”
Hepatitis C patients likely to falter in adherence to treatment regimen over time, Penn study shows
Findings point to need for interventions to help patients take drugs properly
“Patients being treated for chronic hepatitis C become less likely to take their medications over time, according to a new study from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. Since the study also showed better response to the drugs when they're taken correctly, the researchers say the findings should prompt clinicians to assess patients for barriers to medication adherence throughout their treatment, and develop strategies to help them stay on track. The study is published online this month in Annals of Internal Medicine.”
Week Ending September 18, 2011
Two-thirds of Hepatitis C Patients Can See a Cure in Half the Time, New Study Finds
“Treatment with a telaprevir-based combination regimen for hepatitis C – heretofore a chronic, destructive and difficult to manage disease – effectively can be shortened to six months in about two-thirds of patients, finds a new study published Thursday in the New England Journal of Medicine.”
Bristol-Myers’s Once-Daily Hepatitis C Drug Works in Study
“Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.’s experimental hepatitis C drug worked in combination with two established medicines to cure as many as 83 percent of patients, a study found.”
Teva bets $7.5M on hep C program at upstart Cocrystal
“As the generic drug giant pushes to capitalize on more novel therapies, Teva Pharmaceutical has invested an initial $7.5 million in Bothell, WA-based developer Cocrystal Discovery to advance its work on new drugs targeting the hepatitis C virus. If it likes what it sees, Teva has the option to pump more money into the upstart, which is focused on small-molecule antiviral drugs.”
Coffee Helps Minimize Hepatitis C Treatment Side Effects
Is there anything a good cup of coffee (or three) can’t do?
“Not only does coffee consumption slow liver disease progression and increase the chances of success while undergoing treatment for chronic hepatitis C infection, but drinking three or more cups a day also appears to reduce the incidence of hep C treatment side effects by more than 80 percent.”
Consortium Examines Genes Predicting Hepatitis C Treatment Response
“Gene variants in a smattering of immune-related genes can help predict which individuals will respond to treatments for chronic hepatitis C virus infection, according to a study appearing online last night in PLoS Medicine.”
Anadys' Setrobuvir Named One of Windhover's Top 10 Most Interesting Infectious Disease Projects to Watch
“Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced today that setrobuvir (ANA598), the Company's direct-acting antiviral (DAA) currently in Phase IIb development for hepatitis C, has been selected as one of Windhover's Top 10 Most Interesting Infectious Disease Projects to Watch.”
Pharmasset climbs after study result released
“Drug developer Pharmasset Inc. hit a "home run" with results from a mid-stage study of a potential hepatitis C virus treatment, according to a Citi analyst.”
Fresno Needle Exchange Program Presses On
“The Fresno needle exchange program has been providing clean needles and containers to drug users since 1994.”
Hep C weaknesses could lead to vaccine
Australian researchers have discovered two "Achilles heels" in the hepatitis C virus that could help protect people against infection.
“A team from the University of New South Wales says the discovery of these weaknesses could lead to the creation of an effective vaccine.”
Week Ending September 11, 2011
New Treatment Options Are On The Horizon For People Co-Infected With HIV And Hepatitis C Virus
“According to a recent review, the new hepatitis C treatment options Victrelis and Incivek may soon be available for people with HIV and hepatitis C. In the meantime, the authors suggested that strategies be developed to optimize management of hepatitis C in HIV patients with currently available treatment options.”
Anadys' Setrobuvir Named One of Windhover's Top 10 Most Interesting Infectious Disease Projects to Watch
“Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced today that setrobuvir (ANA598), the Company's direct-acting antiviral (DAA) currently in Phase IIb development for hepatitis C, has been selected as one of Windhover's Top 10 Most Interesting Infectious Disease Projects to Watch.”
Pharmasset climbs after study result released
“Drug developer Pharmasset Inc. hit a "home run" with results from a mid-stage study of a potential hepatitis C virus treatment, according to a Citi analyst.”
Fresno Needle Exchange Program Presses On
“The Fresno needle exchange program has been providing clean needles and containers to drug users since 1994.”
Hep C weaknesses could lead to vaccine
Australian researchers have discovered two "Achilles heels" in the hepatitis C virus that could help protect people against infection.
“A team from the University of New South Wales says the discovery of these weaknesses could lead to the creation of an effective vaccine.”
Week Ending September 4, 2011
Dramatic Changes in Hepatitis C Treatment Expected to Continue
“Earlier this year the FDA approved telaprevir (Incivek) from Vertex Pharmaceuticals and boceprevir (Victrelis) from Merck for the treatment of hepatitis C. Both agents are protease inhibitors and represent the first approvals of direct acting antivirals for hepatitis C. Direct acting antivirals are a broad class of agents that act to block the growth of viruses by directly disrupting essential viral functions.”
Gilead Amends Study Design for Ongoing Hepatitis C Clinical Trials That Include GS 9190, Pegylated Interferon and Ribavirin, and Another Direct-Acting Antiviral Agent
“Gilead Sciences, Inc. today announced that, in consultation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the company will amend the design of ongoing clinical trials to discontinue dosing of GS 9190 in hepatitis C-infected patients who are receiving that compound in combination with pegylated interferon and ribavirin, and another direct-acting antiviral agent.”
Comprehensive Management of Liver Disease ?at the Montefiore Einstein Center for Transplantation
“Since 1974, the Marion Bessin Liver Research Center at Albert Einstein College of Medicine – with support from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases – has been a pioneer in advancing liver disease treatment through basic science research. The result of a partnership between Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, the Montefiore Einstein Center for Transplantation was created to offer a clinical component to the research being conducted, allowing patients access to the latest techniques and technologies.”
Inovio Pharmaceuticals: seeking to not only improve on today’s vaccines, but change the vaccine paradigm
“Inovio Pharmaceuticals is a small biotechnology company focused on vaccine development. It is at the forefront in the field of novel DNA based vaccines, a revolutionary change over conventional treatments that rely on the inoculation of actual viral particles or live attenuated viruses. The company’s platform technologies are two-fold: first is creation of the vaccine; then a unique delivery technology.”
‘Hepatitis C has been accepted as not being a dirty word’
“Hepatitis C is curable. Yet, it is responsible for some 86,000 deaths in Europe and 9 million people are infected, according to the World Health Organization. Tackling this are four nurses at HMP Forest Bank in Greater Manchester who are testing, treating and educating prisoners.”
Medivir concludes patient recruitment in three Phase 3 trials
“Medivir has concluded patient recruitment in three Phase 3 trials evaluating TMC435 in both treatment naive and treatment experienced hepatitis C genotype–1 infected patients.”
NIOSH announces community-based anti-needlestick campaign
An estimated 385,000 sharps-related injuries occur annually among health care workers in hospitals alone, exposing them to bloodborne pathogens. A new initiative focuses on raising awareness of the risks and trying to persuadeworkers to make changes necessary to reduce sharps injuries.
“Stop Sticks is a community-based program announced by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C are among the bloodborne pathogens that can result from needlesticks and other sharps-related injuries in the workplace.”
Week Ending August 29, 2011
Pharmasset hepatitis drug may get faster review
“Pharmasset Inc. said Wednesday that the Food and Drug Administration has awarded fast track status to its hepatitis C drug candidate PSI–938. The FDA’s decision will allow Pharmasset to submit its marketing application step by step instead of all at once. Regulators will also have the option to review the application in six months instead of the usual 10 months.”
New Hep C drug priced out of reach of most patients
“Despite approval by Health Canada, Boceprevir, a new drug that dramatically improves the effectiveness of standard hepatitis C treatments remains out of reach of most patients. Boceprevir (brand name Victrelis) is available at pharmacies at a price of $1,050 per week.”
Contamination risk from surgeons' gumboots
“A study published in the New Zealand Medical Journal today finds that blood found its way into nearly 60 per cent of gumboots worn by surgery staff in theatre. Researchers say contamination could be putting medical staff at risk of blood-borne infections, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV.”
Taking control of hep C health
“A six-week workshop will start this month for people diagnosed with a HIV and hepatitis C co–infection. The two-hour information sessions begin on Tuesday, August 30 and will be run by People Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) Victoria.”
Week Ending August 14, 2011
Scotland Struggles with Epidemic of Hepatitis C
“In the wake of rising incidence rate of hepatitis C, warning signals have been sent in the community of Scotland. Even reports have confirmed 39,000 cases of hepatitis C, with 1,600 new cases being diagnosed each year. The most shocking part is that a large number of people are not even aware whether they are carrying the infection or not.”
New drug targets hepatitis C virus
“A new drug that directly targets the most common form of hepatitis C has been launched in the UK.”
Gregg Allman cancels tour due to illness
“Doctors have ordered Gregg Allman, the Southern rock legend and frontman of the Allman Brothers Band, to cancel a series of upcoming tour dates because of a respiratory infection.”
The hep pill
‘Wonder drug’ for Hepatitis C patients”
“The first effective treatment for the most common form of Hepatitis C launches today - providing fresh hope for sufferers worldwide.”
Week Ending August 7, 2011
New approach a step forward for hepatitis C vaccine
(Reuters) – “French scientists have developed a novel hepatitis C vaccine that may offer the first effective way to prevent an infection that can cause chronic liver disease and cancer.”
Experts warn of backyard tattooing risks
“New South Wales north coast health authorities fear a rise in the popularity of backyard tattooing and piercing will help the spread of blood-borne diseases like hepatitis and HIV.”
Low Vitamin D Levels Could Cause Liver Disease
“We are all aware that low levels of vitamin D can cause weak bones. A recent study indicates that it could be associated with liver disease as well!”
Chronic Hepatitis C Genotype 1 Drug, Victrelis (Boceprevir) Launched In UK Today
“Victrelis (boceprevir), the first licenced medication to directly target the hepatitis virus was launched today in the United Kingdom. Victrelis is said to help clear the virus in nearly three times as many
patients who did not respond properly to prior treatment, and nearly twice as many treatment naïve patients, compared to just current therapy.”
Health Canada clears promising new hep C drug
“A new drug, recently approved by Health Canada, brings a cure closer for the 250,000 hepatitis C sufferers across Canada.”
Counseling, Drug Treatment Can Increase Hep C Treatment Eligibility
“A combination of counseling and case management can help people living with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and psychiatric or substance use disorders to qualify for therapy to combat the infection, according to
research reported in the July 2011 issue of The American Journal of Gastroenterology.”
Week Ending July 31, 2011
White House Commemorates World Hepatitis Day 2011
“Today, I was honored to participate in a special White House event to commemorate the first official World Hepatitis Day. This event was one of many held across the United States and around the world
for communities to join together and focus attention on the global health threat of viral hepatitis and promote actions to confront it.”
Chronic hepatitis C estimated at 9.2 million individuals in Middle East and North Africa
“During a press conference in Dubai on World Hepatitis Day scientific medical experts from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region jointly announced a consensus statement on the identification and
challenges posed by chronic hepatitis C in this region, calling for national and local governments and health care providers to join forces to address this condition.”
Exhibit fights stigma of Hep C
“In an effort to raise awareness of the plight of people living with hepatitis C, residents impacted by the disease decided to create a series of artworks to coincide with World Hepatitis Day on
Thursday.”
Prisoners stage protest over sick inmate
“A 30-prisoner standoff broke out in the Wilkinson Road jail Thursday night after prisoners decided an inmate had been denied hospitalization and proper medication.”
Allman Brothers Host Hepatitis C Benefit Show
“The Allman Brothers Band brought out some of their talented friends for a special fundraiser to support research for Hepatitis C in New York City on July 27.”
Hepatitis Is Increasing Among Drug Users
“Based on a new study, 10 million drug users who prefer injecting drugs have hepatitis C while 1.3 million of them have hepatitis B. If left untreated, hepatitis can result to more serious problems like liver
failure, cancer or cirrhosis. Researchers gathered data and discovered that between 60 and 80% of injection drug users (IDUs) have hepatitis C infection in 25 countries.”
United Kingdom: Programs May Curb Hepatitis C in Drug Users
“A recent report offers fresh evidence that needle-exchange programs (NEPs) and opiate substitution therapy (OST) can reduce injection drug users' (IDUs) odds of contracting hepatitis C virus (HCV).”
Week Ending July 18, 2011
Glycyrrhizin as antiviral agent against Hepatitis C Virus
“Herbal plants have been used for centuries against different diseases including viral diseases and have become a major source of new compounds to treat bacterial and viral diseases. The present study was designed to study the antiviral effect of Glycyrrhizin (GL) against HCV.”
Health officials work to curb Mercer Co. hepatitis
“According to health officials, Mercer County, West Virginia now has the most per capita hepatitis B cases in the nation and ranks third for the number of hepatitis C infections.”
State Regulators: Florida Physician's Lax Infection Control Caused Hepatitis Outbreak
“State regulators have filed complaints against Carol Roberts, MD, alleging her lax infection control practices are the cause of a hepatitis C outbreak at her holistic medicine practice in Brandon, Fla., according to a St. Petersburg Times news report”
HIV, Hep C Drug Development Pipeline is “Robust,” Says Report
“Released ahead of the 6th IAS Conference on HIV Pathogenesis, Treatment and Prevention in Rome, the 2011 Pipeline Report “makes clear, medically, [that] the prospect for people with HIV, hepatitis C virus (HCV) and tuberculosis (TB) to live long and healthy lives–and in the cases of HCV and TB, to be cured rapidly with safe, effective, oral combination therapy—[has] never been better,” write Polly Clayden of i–Base and Mark Harrington of TAG write.”
State files complaints against doctor involved in Brandon hepatitis outbreak
“The state has filed a pair of administrative complaints against a doctor for her role in a hepatitis C outbreak that occurred at a holistic medical clinic in Brandon.”
UPMC gets approval to restart living donor transplant programs
“UPMC said today that the federal agency overseeing transplants said it could restart its living donor kidney and liver transplant programs immediately. The transplant programs were shut down in early May after a bungled kidney transplant resulted in a kidney being transplanted that came from a donor who was infected with hepatitis C.”
Week Ending July 10, 2011
Medco's Specialty Pharmacy Improves Hepatitis C Patient Outcomes, Drives Down Costs by an Average $13,000 Per Patient
“Accredo Health Group Inc., the specialty pharmacy of Medco Health Solutions, Inc., has developed a unique ability to manage the costs of treating hepatitis C (HCV), while keeping patients adherent to a complex medication regimen for a sometimes lethal disease that can lead to liver cirrhosis and certain cancers. The introduction of two new HCV medications that hold tremendous promise but also add even a greater degree of complexity to treatment will require this "high touch" approach to help increase patient adherence.”
Survey Finds Support for Universal Hep C Testing
“Universal testing for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, as opposed to testing based on known risk factors, is the way to go, according to a survey of people attending general outpatient clinics in Seattle.”
Hepatitis C on the rise in northern Wisconsin
Wisconsin health officials want to learn why cases of Hepatitis C have increased dramatically among young adults in six north central counties.
“The state and local health departments are surveying adult Hepatitis C patients under 30 years old in the counties of Marathon, Wood, Langlade, Lincoln, Oneida, and Portage, to figure out why the overall number has gone up in recent years.”
Medivir's protease inhibitor TMC435 receives fast track designation from US FDA
“Medivir AB is an emerging research–based specialty pharmaceutical company focused on infectious diseases announced that its investigational protease inhibitor TMC435 has received “Fast Track” designation by the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) genotype–1 infection. This is based on TMC435’s potential to address unmet medical needs in the treatment of CHC infection compared to currently approved therapies.”
Johnson & Johnson Deal Puts Pharmasset Drug in Spotlight
“A just–announced collaboration with Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) is shining a light on Pharmasset’s (VRUS) progress in developing hepatitis C treatments, an area of drug research that’s getting a great deal of attention.”
Week Ending July 3, 2011
More Than Two-Thirds of Surveyed U.S. Clinicians Plan to Prescribe Incivek and Victrelis to Patients with Treatment-Naive Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1
However, Less Than Half of Surveyed Managed Care Organizations Plan To Provide Reimbursement for Either Agent for Use in Treatment Naive HCV1 Patients, According to a New Report from Decision Resources
“Decision Resources, one of the world’s leading research and advisory firms for pharmaceutical and healthcare issues, finds that more than two-thirds of surveyed U.S. clinicians plan to prescribe Vertex/Johnson & Johnson/Mitsubishi Tanabe’s Incivek and Merck/Roche’s Victrelis to patients with treatment-naive hepatitis C virus genotype 1 (HCV1), and half of surveyed physicians indicate they will add Incivek or Victrelis to an HCV1 patient’s existing pegylated-interferon(peg-IFN)/ribavirin regimen. In May 2011, Incivek and Victrelis were approved as treatments for hepatitis C virus by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.”
Behind potent drug names, a complex mix of ingredients
Firms must navigate legal and linguistic hurdles for approval
“They are the public face of products that can take many years and hundreds of millions of dollars to develop. Over time, they often become household names: Think Prozac or Viagra. But drug names start out as alien words: random collections of syllables that can sometimes seem almost as mind-boggling as the complicated chemistry and biology that went into the development of the new medication.”
Programs may curb hepatitis C in drug users
(Reuters Health) – Programs that give injection drug users clean needles or safer drug substitutes may help cut their odds of contracting the liver infection hepatitis C, a new study suggests.
“The hepatitis C virus is passed through contact with infected blood. Health care workers are particularly vulnerable, as are people who get tattoos in unclean environments. But in the U.S., most of the roughly 18,000 new infections each year occur when people who inject opiates, like heroin, share tainted needles or syringes.”
Safe crack kits face challenges in use: study
“Victoria crack cocaine users have been frustrated by police deliberately smashing their pipes, which in many cases have been provided by local health officials, says a recently published study by addictions researchers.”
Fewer Complications With NAFLD Than Hepatitis C Virus
“Patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis may have fewer liver–related complications and less hepatocellular cancer than patients with hepatitis C virus infection, but may have similar overall mortality, according to a study published online June 17 in Hepatology.”
Clinic battles silent killer
Spreads word about virus that affects the liver
“Dr. Syed Haque decided to join and volunteer his time to become the medical director of the Frederick County Hepatitis Clinic after hearing about the work they did over five years ago.”
Week Ending June 19, 2011
BioPlus' Hepatitis C Patient Support Program Improves Treatment Outcomes of New Triple Therapy
HepatitisRxAssist program from BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy helps patients secure needed medications, manage side effects, and adhere to their treatment plan for the best possible outcomes with the new protease inhibitor medications.
“BioPlus Specialty Pharmacy (BioPlus), one of the nation's leading specialty pharmacies, is announcing today enhancements to their hepatitis C patient support program called HepatitisRxAssist.”
A Common Cancer
“The liver is the second largest organ in the body, and performs a variety of functions that are vital to life. These include the filtering and processing of blood; bile production; producing proteins, glucose and cholesterol; storing fat-soluble vitamins, glycogen and iron; metabolising drugs, glucose and haemoglobin; and even a role in immunity.”
Coffee May Improve Virologic Response to Hep C Treatment
(HealthDay News) – “Patients receiving hepatitis C therapy who drink three or more cups of coffee per day are more likely to respond to treatment compared to nondrinkers, according to a study published the June issue of Gastroenterology.”
Mayor Gray Releases Annual Report Showing Progress on Addressing HIV/AIDS, STDs, Hepatitis and TB in DC
Report includes new study on injection drug use and expanded needle-exchange programs.
““Our newest update on the state of the HIV epidemic gives new inspiration to our efforts as One City – government and community working together – to fight HIV/AIDS in the District of Columbia. We are getting people diagnosed earlier and into care and treatment faster for their health, thereby reducing the chances that others will get infected,” said Mayor Gray. “I look forward to the recommendations of the Mayor’s Commission on HIV and AIDS to strengthen our response and do more to improve the health of District residents.””
Week Ending June 12, 2011
Scientists Develop First Genetically Humanized Mouse Model for Hepatitis C
“The first genetically humanized mouse model for hepatitis C has been created by scientists at Rockefeller University and The Scripps Research Institute.”
Patients Support Universal Screening for Hepatitis C
“In the United States, up to 70 percent of 2.9 million to 3.7 million people with hepatitis C (HCV) are unaware of their infection. Although universal screening might be a cost-effective way to identify infections, prevent morbidity, and reduce transmission, few efforts have been made to determine patient opinions about new approaches to screening.”
Researcher sets sights on helping at Frederick County Hepatitis Clinic
“Roger Ptak moved to Frederick in 1999 to pursue a career researching potential treatments for infectious diseases at the Southern Research Institute.”
Vertex and Alios BioPharma Announce Exclusive Worldwide Licensing Agreement for Two Nucleotide Drug Candidates, Broadening Vertex’s Efforts to Develop New Combinations of Medicines for Hepatitis C
“Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated and Alios BioPharma, Inc. today announced an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement that will add two distinct nucleotide analogues to Vertex’s hepatitis C portfolio. The compounds, which were discovered by Alios and are known as ALS-2200 and ALS-2158, have shown in in vitro studies to be potent inhibitors of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) polymerase, an enzyme essential for replication of the virus. The addition of these compounds provides Vertex with multiple opportunities to develop potential, new, all-oral combination regimens for chronic hepatitis C. Vertex expects ALS-2200 and ALS-2158 to enter clinical development later this year.”
Noninvasive Tests Reduce Need for Liver Biopsies in Hep C
“The use of noninvasive alternatives to liver biopsies to assess liver disease in people with chronic hepatitis C is becoming increasingly more common and reliable in certain situations, according to an expert article published in the June issue of Hepatology reviewing two such diagnostic options: elastography and blood tests.”
Week Ending June 6, 2011
Primary Care Providers Can Treat HCV Effectively
“Hepatitis C virus infection can be effectively treated by primary care providers trained in the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes program, according to a study published online June 1 in the New England Journal of Medicine.”
Substandard Hygiene Practices At Some VA Hospitals
“Over the last 24 months 13,000 veterans have been advised to have a blood test to check for infections caused by lack of hygiene at VA hospitals in Tennessee, Georgia, Missouri, Ohio and Florida. Reports about unsanitary conditions at VA hospitals has irked a significant number of veterans and politicians.”
UPMC Surgeon, Nurse Disciplined for Transplanting Kidney From Donor With Hepatitis C
“The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has disciplined a surgeon and a nurse after it discovered the professionals were involved in the transplant of a kidney from a donor infected with hepatitis C, according to a Reuters news report.”
Heavy Coffee Consumption Linked to Better Hep C Treatment Response
“Patients with advanced hepatitis C virus–related liver disease who drank three or more cups of coffee per day were three times more likely to respond to therapy with peginterferon alfa-2a plus ribavirin at four time points than were patients who didn’t drink coffee, Neal David Freedman, Ph.D., and his colleagues reported in the June issue of Gastroenterology.”
Shorter Treatment for Acute Hep C Works in HIV-Coinfected MSM
“HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) diagnosed with acute hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are just as likely to clear their HCV with a 24-week course of treatment as those treated for a full 48 weeks, according to a report published online May 25 in AIDS.”
Anadys Announces Issuance of U.S. Patent Covering Setrobuvir (ANA598)
SAN DIEGO, June 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — “Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced issuance of the U.S. patent covering setrobuvir (ANA598), the Company’s Direct-Acting Antiviral (DAA) in Phase IIb development for chronic hepatitis C virus infection (HCV). U.S. Patent No. 7,939,524, granted to Anadys by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, recognizes the Company's intellectual property rights to the composition of matter and methods of use for setrobuvir (ANA598) and related compounds.”
Zebrowski family plans hepatitis C benefit walk in late assemblyman's memory
NEW CITY – “It's common to hear about AIDS and HIV, breast and prostate cancer, but another deadly disease is rarely discussed. At least 12,000 people die every year from chronic liver disease linked to hepatitis C. New City resident and Assemblyman Kenneth Zebrowski was one of them. He died in 2007 at age 61 of liver disease caused by hepatitis C. Now his family is starting a campaign to make the disease more well-known.”
CVS Caremark Enhances Hepatitis C Support Program to Help Patients Manage New Triple Therapy Regimen
WOONSOCKET, R.I., June 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — “CVS Caremark announced today that it is enhancing its hepatitis C patient support program following the recent FDA approval of two new add-on therapies for hepatitis C. While the new therapies offer improved response rates and a shorter treatment regimen for patients, they still result in uncomfortable and challenging side effects. The dedicated Hep C CareTeam educates patients about their disease and treatment regimen and supports them throughout therapy. The Team also researches and manages the benefits verification process, ensures on-time delivery of the medication, coordinates injection training for new patients and communicates proactively with the patient's physician.”
Right-to-die pioneer succumbs to liver cancer, hepatitis C at 83
“JACK Kevorkian, the pathologist whose 'suicide machine' thrust euthanasia into the national spotlight in the early 1990s, has died in Michigan. Dr Kevorkian passed away at a hospital, where he was being treated for liver problems. He was 83 years old. He was suffering from liver cancer and hepatitis C, and died from a pulmonary embolism, according to Detroit lawyer Geoffrey Fieger, who represented him at some trials in the 1990s.”
Paramedics infected by patients, union says
“More than one ambulance B.C. paramedic has contracted hepatitis C because of exposure to bodily fluids, the head of the ambulance union said. Brownwyn Barter, acting president of the Ambulance Paramedics of B.C., said she knows of several cases in which paramedics had contracted hepatitis C from exposure to bodily fluids. But Barter said she had no exact numbers.”
Week Ending May 30, 2011
Hepatitis C ‘Silent Epidemic’ in U.S. Needs More Funding, Researcher Says
“Hepatitis C, a disease that affects at least 5 million Americans, may be growing at a greater rate than reported as a “silent epidemic” of the virus spreads among younger people, according to a New York
epidemiologist.”
Who Gets It First? Arrival of Direct Antiviral Agent Therapy for Hepatitis C Sparks Debate
“The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved two new DAAs, telaprevir and boceprevir, and with that clinicians must now decide who should be the first to receive this treatment. Discussion of this timely topic is now available in the June issue of Hepatology, a journal published by Wiley-Blackwell on behalf of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.”
Chambersburg medical office tells patients it re-used needles
CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – “Urology Associates of Chambersburg sent a letter to many of its patients late last month to inform them of a serious problem. The letter stated that incorrect needles had been used for biopsy results.”
New Drugs Encouraging for African Americans with Hepatitis C
“Two new drugs just approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat hepatitis C genotype 1 significantly improved the cure rates of patients. One of the drugs was extremely effective in treating African Americans.”
Viral Outbreaks in Dogs Yield Clues on Origins of Hepatitis C
“Hepatitis C is, in some ways, a high-profile disease. Worldwide, an estimated 200 million people are infected with the virus. Some of them will suffer cirrhosis, liver cancer and even death. Celebrities like Steven Tyler of Aerosmith and “American Idol” have spoken publicly of their infections.”
Fair Pricing Coalition Says Vertex’s Incivek Price ‘Outrageous’
“The Fair Pricing Coalition is again sounding the alarm regarding the price of newly approved treatments for hepatitis C, this time questioning the cost of Vertex’s protease inhibitor Incivek (telaprevir). The advocacy group is concerned that Incivek’s price tag of $49,200 per 12-week course will adversely affect the ability of people with HCV to access the drug, while also setting an excessively unreasonable future price point for the many hepatitis C virus (HCV) drugs in the pipeline.”
Week Ending May 22, 2011
FDA approves Incivek for hepatitis C
“The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Incivek (telaprevir) to treat certain adults with chronic hepatitis C infection. Incivek is used for patients who have either not received interferon-based drug therapy for their infection or who have not responded adequately to prior therapies. Incivek is approved for use with interferon therapy made up of peginterferon alfa and ribavirin.”
The Quotable Voice
“"I feel like I’m watching this epidemic unfold, and we aren’t really doing a lot in terms of prevention." Dr. Alfred DeMaria Jr., state epidemiologist with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, in response to new hepatitis C reports showing a significant increase among Massachusetts teenagers and young adults.”
Resonance Health develops accurate fatty liver diagnostic test, seeks FDA approval
“Resonance Health has developed a fatty liver diagnostic test after positive results from a clinical study accurately assessed the severity of the disease.”
Blood Screening Test That Offers Immediate Viral Discrimination for Three Major Viruses Receives CE Mark
“Roche announced today that the cobas® TaqScreen MPX Test, version 2.0 for use on the cobas s 201 system is now commercially available in Europe.”
Many do not know they have Hepatitis C
“Barb Hopkins says she must have contracted Hepatitis C in the 1970s when she accidentally poked herself with a needle while working as a laboratory technician.”
Abbott Receives FDA Approval for Molecular Test for Hepatitis C
“Abbott announced today that it has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to market its RealTime PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test for measuring the viral load of hepatitis C (HCV), the leading cause of liver cancer in the United States.”
Merck's hepatitis C drug receives positive recommendation from EMA
“Healthcare giant Merck said Friday that Europe's regulatory drug agency has recommended the company's investigational medicine boceprevir, a treatment for the hepatitis C virus, for approval.”
New Mexico Telehealth Program Shows Promise for Chronic Illness Care
“A New Mexico-based program that uses telehealth technology and case-based learning helped increase the number of consultations provided for hepatitis C and other chronic diseases, according to a new Health Affairs study, CMIO reports (CMIO, 5/20).”
Medivir Announces Positive 48-week Interim Data from TMC435 Hepatitis C Phase 2b ASPIRE Study in Treatment-Experienced Genotype-1 Patients
“Medivir AB, the emerging research-based specialty pharmaceutical company focused on infectious diseases, today announced results from the ASPIRE phase 2b study that evaluates the addition of once daily TMC435 to pegylated interferon and ribavirin in patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C whose prior treatment with pegylated-interferon (PegIFN) and ribavirin (RBV) was unsuccessful either because they relapsed, had a partial response or had a null response.”
Week Ending May 15, 2011
FDA approves boceprevir, the first new hepatitis C drug in 20 years
“The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved marketing of the Merck drug boceprevir, the first new drug for hepatitis C in 20 years. The agency is still considering approval of a similar drug, telaprevir, and is expected to approve it soon as well. Both drugs are members of a new class of hepatitis drugs called protease inhibitors, which block a key enzyme required by the virus to replicate. They are expected to convert hepatitis C from a debilitating disease into a manageable condition for the majority of people infected with the virus. Boceprevir, which will be marketed by Merck under the brand name Victrelis, is approved only for use in conjunction with the current hepatitis C drugs, peginterferon-alpha and ribavirin.”
Left untreated, Hep C can undermine your health
““How can I have hepatitis? My eyes aren’t yellow, my skin’s not yellow, my liver doesn’t hurt, I don’t have a fever. I don’t even remember a time when I did have all that.””
Patients Show Reduced Depression Rates After Locteron
“Biolex Therapeutics announced results demonstrating reduced rates of depression from its SELECT-2 Phase 2b trial of Locteron for hepatitis C treatment at the 46th Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL).”
UPMC confirms patient got kidney from donor with Hepatitis C
“UPMC officials today confirmed a Tribune-Review report that a kidney transplant recipient in its living-donor program received an organ from a donor who had the Hepatitis C virus.”
DDW: Study Backs HCV Screens for All Boomers
“Screening all baby boomers for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection could save tens of thousands of lives at a very acceptable cost, a researcher said here.”
Taiwan institute develops Chinese medicine against hepatitis C
Taipei, May 11 (CNA) “A Taiwan research institute has successfully developed a drug that contains Chinese herbal extracts used for treating hepatitis C and it is now in phase II clinical trials, a Ministry of Economic Affairs official said Tuesday.”
County supervisors back plan to address unhealthy inmates
SAN BERNARDINO • “California parolees have a four–times greater rate of active tuberculosis and a nine to 10–times greater rate for Hepatitis C than the general public.”
Week Ending May 9, 2011
Needle exchanges help, too
“THE ROUGHLY three million Americans with hepatitis C had reason to cheer the Federal Drug Administration’s preliminary approval last month of two promising new drugs for treatment of the infectious liver disease.”
Strides in identifying and improving screening practices and treatment for liver diseases
Health outcomes explored at DDW 2011
“Research being presented at Digestive Disease Week® (DDW) shows that screening individuals for hepatitis C based on age instead of conventional risk factors may help increase detection rates as well as prevent liver disease. Additionally, the rate of vaccination against viral hepatitis in patients with chronic liver disease and type 2 diabetes is relatively low, and these patients are at increased risk of severe liver injury once infected. DDW is the largest international gathering of physicians and researchers in the field of gastroenterology, hepatology, endoscopy and gastrointestinal surgery.”
Hepatitis C ‘epidemic’ hits Bay State
“Health officials are warning that Massachusetts is facing an "epidemic" of Hepatitis C virus infections among adolescents and young adults, particularly among those who are injection drug users.”
Hepatitis C in HIV-infected individuals: cure and control, right now
“For persons living with HIV, hepatitis C is a major public health problem that must be controlled and could be eliminated. The challenge arises because the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is prevalent among HIV-infected persons in most parts of the world, because HIV worsens all HCV outcomes, and because HCV may add additional individual economic and psychosocial complications to HIV disease.”
Hepatitis Awareness Month
“Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C can become chronic, life–long infections which can lead to liver cancer. Millions of Americans are living with chronic viral hepatitis, and many do not know they are infected.”
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Regent Park clinic offers hope to Hep C patients
“There's a good way of judging the success of a program to prepare people for the rigours of a hepatitis C treatment program and then help them get through it . . . Whether they keep showing up.”
Week Ending May 2, 2011
Merck’s Hepatitis C Drug Increases Cure Rates in Clinical Trial, FDA Says
Merck & Co.’s experimental hepatitis C drug cures more patients than current therapies, according to U.S. regulators considering whether to clear the first treatment for the liver disease in more than a decade.
Vertex’s hepatitis C drug aces review
Telaprevir cures more people more quickly than current options
A drug developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. cures more patients with the hepatitis C virus in less time than existing therapies, according to a briefing document filed yesterday by Food and Drug Administration staffers who reviewed the company’s application for approval.
Washington Watch: Stem Cell Research Gets Boost
In dual victories for the Obama administration, a federal appeals court ruled the National Institutes of Health can continue to fund embryonic stem cell research, and the Supreme Court rejected a request to expedite one of the lawsuits filed against the healthcare reform law.
Boehringer begins late-stage hep C trial
Boehringer Ingelheim has begun enrolling patients in North America for a phase III trial of its chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) candidate, which already has fast track designation from US regulators.
BI 201335 is an oral protease inhibitor and will be tested with standard–of–care in both treatment–naive and treatment–experienced patients with chronic genotype-1 HCV.
Severity of hepatitis C and HIV co-infection in mothers contribute to HCV transmission to child
New research shows that high maternal viral load and co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are the only risk factors associated with vertical transmission of the hepatitis C virus (HCV–VT). A variation in the infant's IL28B gene (CC) is associated independently with the spontaneous clearance of HCV genotype–1 among infected children. The status of IL28B in the mother or children did not increase risk of HCV–VT in this study. Findings are published in the May issue of Hepatology, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.
Twice–weekly pegylated interferon improved early treatment responses in co-infected patients
Twice weekly dosing of pegylated interferon improved early response rates to hepatitis C therapy in a small study of co–infected HIV–positive patients, US investigators report in the online edition of AIDS.
Week Ending April 24, 2011
Vertex, Merck Step Up to the Public Stage With Hepatitis C Drugs This Week
“Vertex Pharmaceuticals is heading down the home stretch in its bid to transform treatment of hepatitis C, and this week the public will get an up-close look at the risks and benefits of its drug that could change the standard of care for millions of people.”
Asia’s problem with chronic hepatitis
“With over 500 million people on the globe afflicted with chronic hepatitis, it far outpaces either cancer or HIV worldwide. In fact, one in 12 people on the planet are chronically infected with either hepatitis B or C, causing the creation of the World Hepatitis Day 2008/2009 slogan, “Am I Number 12”.”
Idera Hep C drug faces setback
“Idera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has decided to delay launching its phase 2 study on a potential treatment for Hepatitis C after a toxicology study on rodents showed instances of atypical proliferation of a type of white blood cells, called lymphocytes. High levels of lymphocytes are generally associated with viral infections.”
Report: Thousands of VA dental patients should be tested
“A task force on April 21 recommended thousands of Dayton VA Medical Center patients be tested for exposure to hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV.”
A comparison of four fibrosis indexes in chronic HCV: Development of new fibrosis–cirrhosis index (FCI)
“Hepatitis C can lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. We compared readily available non-invasive fibrosis indexes for the fibrosis progression discrimination to find a better combination of existing non-invasive markers.”
Major Investment in Hep C research
“The Medical Research Council – University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR) has received almost £2 million from the Medical Research Foundation, an independent registered charity established by the Medical Research Council (MRC).The award will fund the setting up of a clinical database of 10,000 patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) which it is hoped will help enable a UK-wide network of researchers to find new ways to tackle the deadly infection.”
Quest Diagnostics Launches Hepatitis C Virus Therapy Test Based on IL28B Gene Variants
“Quest Diagnostics Incorporated (NYSE: DGX), the world's leading provider of diagnostic testing, information and services, today announced the availability of its AccuType® IL28B test for aiding in the prediction of patient response to peginterferon alpha-based therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Quest Diagnostics is now offering the test to physicians and other healthcare providers in the U.S. and to pharmaceutical companies for use in clinical trials research.”
Week Ending April 18, 2011
BMS–790052/BMS–650032 Combo Cures Hepatitis C without Interferon
“In one of the most exciting studies presented at the European Association for the Study of the Liver conference (EASL 2011) this month in Berlin, 2 new oral agents in combination with standard–of–care hepatitis C treatment showed remarkable results in people with chronic hepatitis C who had not responded to prior standard treatment.”
ChronTech Pharma, Transgene, and Inovio Pharmaceuticals to Collaborate on Prime–Boost Therapeutic Vaccination Against Hepatitis C Phase I study to assess safety and immunogenicity
“ChronTech Pharma AB has signed a collaboration agreement with Transgene S.A. and Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Inc. to evaluate a novel therapeutic vaccination strategy against genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) in a phase I clinical study.”
Flu Shot Mix–Up Puts Kids at Risk for HIV, Hepatitis B
“A group of children who received flu shots at a Colorado clinic are now being tested for several infectious diseases including HIV, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C after a mix–up that led vaccine syringes to be shared between patients, 9News.com reported.”
Risk factors associated with Hepatitis C among female substance users enrolled in community–based HIV prevention studies
“Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is one of the most frequent chronic blood–borne infections in the United States. The epidemiology of HCV transmission is not completely understood, particularly in women and minorities.”
Denver's first legal needle exchange on horizon
“Three days a week, people pay a visit to a quaint red house at Lipan Street and West Eighth Avenue in the La Alma⁄Lincoln Park neighborhood.”
Week Ending April 11, 2011
Big picture of how interferon-induced genes launch antiviral defenses revealed
“When viruses attack, one molecule more than any other fights back. Interferon triggers the activation of more than 350 genes, and despite the obvious connection, the vast majority have never been tested for antiviral properties.”
Army veteran fears he was infected with hepatitis C at VA dental clinic
“Charles Johnson was a patient of dentist who did not follow sterilization guides.
Charles Johnson already had endured his share of health problems, and then some: kidney cancer, diabetes, depression, high blood pressure and bad knees.”
Increased mortality rates seen in chronic hepatitis C patients with pre-cirrhotic advanced fibrosis
“A three-year follow-up study of patients in the Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-term Treatment against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) trial revealed that increased mortality among patients with advanced chronic hepatitis C who received long-term peginterferon therapy was attributed to non-liver related causes and occurred primarily in patients with bridging fibrosis.”
Asian Ethnicity May Predict Hep B-Dominant Dual Infection
(HealthDay News) – “Asians who are infected with both hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are more likely to have HBV-dominant disease, compared to dually infected non-Asians, according to a study published online March 21 in Hepatology.”
Hepatitis C, Alcohol Use and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Greatest Risk Factors for HCC
“Research suggests risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma may include hepatitis C virus, alcohol use and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, according to a study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.”
Boehringer Ingelheim to commence phase III trial of hepatitis C drug
“Boehringer Ingelheim has announced plans to move ahead with phase III clinical trials of its new hepatitis C treatment BI 201335.”
Week Ending April 3, 2011
New Data Shows 83% of Patients With Genotype 1 Hepatitis C, Who Have Previously Relapsed on Existing Standard of Care Treatments, Achieve a Cure With Investigational Agent Telaprevir[1]
“Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson* is today announcing, at the 46th Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), the results of the phase 3 REALIZE study with telaprevir, a direct-acting antiviral agent, which involved patients with genotype 1 hepatitis.\ C who have previously failed to respond to currently available treatments.”
Novartis first-in-class antiviral DEB025 achieved sustained viral response in 76% of patients with chronic hepatitis C, new phase II study shows
“Novartis announced today that a Phase II study with the first-in-class antiviral DEB025 (alisporivir) met its primary endpoint for achieving viral cure (24 weeks after stopping treatment) in 76% of patients with chronic hepatitis C[1]. The study involved nearly 300 previously untreated patients infected with the most common form of hepatitis C virus (HCV), the genotype 1 (G1)[1].”
Bristol-Myers' Compound Shows Higher Response Rate In Phase 2b Hepatitis C Study
“Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. said Saturday that a Phase IIb clinical trial showed that its investigational compound PEG-Interferon lambda and ribavirin achieved higher rates of rapid virologic response, and also complete early virologic response in certain genotypes than the standard regimen of PEG-Interferon alfa and ribavirin in treatment-naïve patients chronically infected with hepatitis C.”
Medivir: Week 24 Interim Results From TMC435 Hepatitis C Phase 2b ASPIRE Study Presented at EASL
“Medivir AB, the emerging research-based specialty pharmaceutical company focused on infectious diseases, announces that their partner, Tibotec has presented the results of a planned Week 24 interim analysis of the phase 2b ASPIRE study for TMC435 in treatment experienced hepatitis C patients in a late-breaker session at the 46th Annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), Berlin, Germany.”
Abbott and Enanta Present Positive 12-Week Results and 3-Day Resistance Data From Phase 2 Study of ABT-450/r for Treatment of Hepatitis C
“Abbott and Enanta Pharmaceuticals today announced 12-week results from a Phase 2 study of ABT-450/r, an investigational, oral protease inhibitor being developed for the treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) infection. Study results show that 92 percent (22 of 24) of patients taking ABT-450/r once daily, combined with standard of care, achieved complete early virologic response (HCV RNA levels <25 IU/mL) at 12 weeks. Results were presented at the European Association for the Study of Liver Disease (EASL) annual meeting in Berlin.”
Merck, J&J’s New Hepatitis C Treatments Fetch $31,000 in France
“New hepatitis C drugs from Merck & Co. and Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) are being sold in France for 22,000 euros ($31,271) and more, a precedent some doctors say may limit access after the medicines are approved throughout Europe.”
Cirrhosis and HCC Have Risen Dramatically in Hepatitis C Patients
“The burden of cirrhosis, hepatic decompensation, and hepatocellular carcinoma has risen dramatically during the past decade among patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection, Dr. Fasiha Kanwal and her colleagues reported in the April issue of Gastroenterology.”
Pharmasset Initiates Phase 2b ATOMIC Trial of PSI-7977 for Multiple HCV Genotypes
“Pharmasset, Inc. announced today that screening has begun in a Phase 2b study of PSI-7977, a nucleotide analog polymerase inhibitor for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C (HCV). The trial will evaluate PSI-7977 400mg QD with pegylated interferon and ribavirin in patients with HCV genotype 1, 4, 5 or 6 who have not been treated previously.”
Week Ending March 28, 2011
To Prevent the Donation of Infected Organs, Attention Turns to More Rapid Testing
“A kidney recipient in a New York City hospital recently contracted HIV from the transplanted organ, which came from a living donor, according to the New York State Department of Health. Although an initial screening had been performed on the donor, he or she apparently had unsafe sex after the test but before donating the kidney. The Department of Health is now recommending that hospitals test donors for HIV, as well as the hepatitis C and B viruses, within 14 days of donating an organ.”
Government of Canada Invests in Better Treatment for Hepatitis C
“Patients with Hepatitis C or liver cancer may soon benefit from a novel drug delivery system leading to a safer and more effective treatment, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada in Therapure Biopharma Inc.”
OraSure Technologies Submits CLIA Waiver Application For OraQuick(R) Hepatitis C Virus Rapid Test
“OraSure Technologies, Inc. announced that it has submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") an application for a waiver under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 ("CLIA") for its OraQuick(R) Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Rapid Antibody Test for use with venous whole blood and fingerstick whole blood specimens.”
Reyataz May Be Safe for HIV-Positive People With Severe Liver Disease
“People with HIV who have severe hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver disease (cirrhosis) may be able to safely take Reyataz (atazanavir) without worsening their liver condition, according to a study published online March 17 in the journal AIDS.”
Week Ending March 21, 2011
FDA Panel To Review Merck, Vertex Hepatitis Drugs In Late April
“A U.S. Food and Drug Administration panel will review two hepatitis C drugs in development from Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Merck & Co. Inc. in late April, as the companies race to compete against each other in a potentially lucrative market.”
Ten per cent of Pakistan’s population suffering from Hepatitis
KARACHI: “An estimated 10 per cent of Pakistan’s population of 160 million is suffering from Hepatitis, which shows high prevalence of the disease in the country. Five per cent of the troubled individuals have hepatitis C.”
In focus : Hepatitis B virus and co-infections
“According to the World Health Organization, there are at present 170 million people infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), equivalent to 3 percent of the total world population.”
Hepatitis C transmission still high among injection drug users
“Efforts to control blood-borne infections have dramatically reduced HIV incidence among injection drug users (IDUs), but declines in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have been less substantial, prompting health officials to call for better prevention and treatment strategies.”
Outcomes Differ Among Hepatitis C-Related Vasculitides
(HealthDay News) – “Among patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)–related vasculitis, those with polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) have a more severe and acute clinical presentation and a higher rate of clinical remission, according to a study published online Feb. 25 in Arthritis Care & Research.”
iTherX Initiates Phase 1b Study of First-in-Class Hepatitis C Virus Entry Inhibitor ITX-5061
“TherX, a pharmaceutical company dedicated to discovering and developing a new class of therapies for hepatitis C, today announced that it has commenced patient recruitment in an open-label, proof-of-concept Phase 1b study of its lead compound ITX-5061 in liver transplant patients with hepatitis C virus infection (HCV). ITX-5061 represents a first-in-class compound that inhibits entry of the hepatitis C virus into liver cells.”
Fracture rates higher in patients with HIV
“Fracture rates in patients with HIV are higher than those in the general US population, investigators report in the online edition of Clinical Infectious Diseases. Rates increased between 2000-2002, and then remained broadly stable until the end of the study in 2008.”
Week Ending March 14, 2011
The Hepatitis lobby is in town
NEW YORK – “Some 30 people loosely affiliated with the same anti-poverty coalition that briefly blocked the Capitol’s State Street entrance last week are back — but this time instead of focusing on renewal of the so-called Millionaires’ tax, or surcharge on high income New Yorkers, these demonstrators are calling for better testing, detection and treatment of Hepatitis C among users of methadone clinics.”
Analysts jolted by Pharmasset's stellar data on combo hep C treatment
“In one of the worst kept secrets of the year, new data shows that Pharmasset's combo oral approach to hepatitis C triggered the complete elimination of the virus in 15 of 16 patients after only 14 days of treatment.”
Inovio Pharmaceuticals' Partner ChronTech Initiates Phase II Clinical Trial of Hepatitis C Virus DNA Vaccine Using Inovio's Electroporation Delivery Technology
“Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a leader in the development of therapeutic and preventive vaccines against cancers and infectious diseases, announced today that its partner, ChronTech Pharma AB (formerly Tripep AB), has initiated a Phase IIb clinical study of its ChronVac-C® DNA vaccine for hepatitis C virus (HCV), delivered by Inovio's proprietary electroporation DNA vaccine delivery technology, in combination with standard of care.”
New Hepatitis C Data from Boehringer Ingelheim HCV Portfolio to Be Presented at EASL
“New data from the Boehringer Ingelheim hepatitis C virus (HCV) portfolio will be presented in oral scientific sessions at the International Liver CongressTM 2011, the 46th Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL), taking place 30 March-3 April in Berlin, Germany.”
New York Bill to Criminalize Reckless Infection of Patients
“New York Assemblyman Ken Zebrowski has introduced a bill that would criminalize the reckless infection of patients, according to a Journal News report.”
Gilead's hepatitis C therapy called successful
“Gilead Sciences Inc.'s four-drug combination eliminated hepatitis C virus in patients in an early-stage study, RBC Capital Markets LLC analysts said.”
Vertex Drug Promising in Hepatitis C Patients With HIV
“Substantially more HIV/hepatitis C virus co-infected patients taking the investigational HCV drug telaprevir achieved a rapid viral response (RVR) than those taking standard therapy alone, researchers reported at the 18th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections in Boston. RVR, defined as undetectable HCV after four weeks of treatment, can be an early indicator of eventually attaining a sustained viral response (SVR).”
Senate passes bill penalizing hepatitis carriers who risk transmission
“Members of the Tennessee Senate passed a bill which creates a $1,000 fine for someone who knowingly has hepatitis B or C and does not let potential partners know about the virus or chance of it transmitting.”
Interventional and combined approaches show promise in advanced liver Cancer
“Emerging interventional techniques appear promising for the treatment of hepatic tumours, even those at advanced stages. Attendees at the special focus session on transarterial procedures, taking place today at ECR, will find out just how far these techniques, as well as combined approaches, have gone.”
Week Ending February 28, 2011
Hepatitis C Patients' Access to Latest Antiviral Therapy Limited by Lack of Health Insurance
“Patients in the U.S. with hepatitis C virus (HCV) are twice as likely to not have health insurance coverage compared with those without the disease, says a new research.”
New vaccine technology shows promise against hepatitis C virus
“At present all over the world, near about 3 percent of the total population is infected by hepatitis C. In this disease, the virus enters in to the body and affects the liver. And later on it becomes dangerous and can further cause diseases like cirrhosis, liver cancer etc. And once it gets in to the human body, it becomes extremely dangerous. Unfortunately there was no vaccination for this virus earlier.”
Scripps Pioneers Individualized Medicine by Offering Genetic Testing to Hepatitis C Patients
Individualized Therapies Now Available for Drug Treatment of Hepatitis C
“Scripps Health is one of the first health systems in the United States to offer genetic testing as part of its care for hepatitis C patients planning to undergo drug treatment.”
Hep C figures drop
“A NEEDLE exchange programme for drug users has been credited for a sharp drop in hepatitis C cases in the region.”
New Drugs for Hepatitis C Virus
Medications nearing federal approval to treat "silent epidemic"
“There may be new hope for treating hepatitis C, a hidden disease that affects millions of boomers. Two new drugs nearing federal approval could nearly double the chance of curing those with the virus, which destroys the liver. In addition, scientists at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are studying whether all adults routinely should be screened for the disease, which kills 12,000 to 15,000 Americans each year.”
Treatment available locally for Hepatitis C
Canada – “There are hundreds, if not thousands of people suffering from Hepatitis C in Sarnia-Lambton, says a registered nurse who's started offering treatment options locally.”
The Conservative Case for Needle Exchange
“The specter of a ruinous budget shortfall has darkened the mood of the current Texas Legislature. In a climate with a mandate to slash spending, bills that seek new or increased funding – no matter how valid the need – seem doomed from the start.”
Children With Hepatitis C May Benefit From Ribavirin
“The combination of pegylated interferon (PEG) plus ribavirin is better than PEG plus placebo for treating children infected with hepatitis C virus, according to a study published in the February issue of
Gastroenterology.”
Week Ending February 21, 2011
NVHR: Administration's 2012 Budget Proposal Represents 'Sea Change' in National Response to Viral Hepatitis Epidemic
“The Administration's 2012 budget proposal to increase federal funding for expanded state- and locally-based viral hepatitis surveillance, screening, and treatment by more than $5 million heralds a sea change in our nation's national strategy to respond to the viral hepatitis epidemic, the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) said today.”
Medivir releases good phase IIb data for hepatitis C drug
“Swedish pharma company Medivir AB (STO: MVIR B) said today its candidate drug TMC435 for the treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype-1 has shown positive 48-week interim results in a phase IIb clinical trial dubbed Pillar.”
Bristol-Myers Squibb funds Asian hepatitis initiatives
“Bristol-Myers Squibb has provided funding to support a number of schemes dedicated to combating hepatitis B and C in China and India.”
Tibotec Starts Global Phase 3 Clinical Trials Studying TMC435 In Adults With Chronic Genotype 1 HCV
“Tibotec Pharmaceuticals announced that two global, registrational phase 3 trials are recruiting patients to examine TMC435, its investigational hepatitis C protease inhibitor, in treatment-naïve adults with chronic genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV).”
Do you know about Hepatitis C in the African American Community?
“African Americans represent 12% of the U.S. population, but make up about 22% of the chronic Hepatitis C cases.”
GR Program Exchanges Needles To Reduce Disease
Clean Works Takes Dirty Needles Off The Streets Hands Out New Ones
“A non-profit organization in Grand Rapids is in the business of preventing disease by handing out syringes to drug addicts.”
Hepatitis C On Long Island a ‘Silent Epidemic’
‘A new study shows seven out of ten Long Islanders with Hepatitis C don’t even know they are infected.”
New York: Patients Treated at Rockland Psychiatric Center Warned of Hepatitis Risk
“The State Department of Health is advising that some patients of Rockland Psychiatric Center be tested for blood-borne infections like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. Last summer a patient at the center contracted hepatitis B, and DOH launched an investigation in cooperation with the state Office of Mental Health, which operates RPC.”
U.S. hepatitis C cases down sharply since 1980s
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) – “New infections of the liver with hepatitis C virus are far less common these days in the U.S. compared to the early 1980s, a new government study finds.”
Some of L.A. County's most vulnerable vets to get badly needed care
“Project 60 aims to save lives of 60 ill and fragile vets by offering housing and support.”
Week Ending February 14, 2011
NVHR: Administration’s 2012 Budget Proposal Represents ‘Sea Change’ In National Response to Viral Hepatitis Epidemic
Budget Proposal Calls for $5 Million Increase For State-based Surveillance, Screening & Treatment Programs
Caring Ambassadors Program Launches Unique New DVD Series "Hepatitis C: Choices in Care"
OREGON CITY, OR – “The Caring Ambassadors Program (CAP) proudly announces the release of the new DVD series "Hepatitis C: Choices in Care — Distinctive Viewpoints on Choices for Your Hepatitis C Journey." The 2-disc set offers over nine hours of leading expert physician interviews, patient consultations, panel discussions, Power Point presentations and 30 minutes of Qi Gong exercises specifically geared towards people living with hepatitis C.”
FDA grants fast track designation to Inhibitex HCV drug
“The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has designated Inhibitex’s investigation of INX-08189, a potent guanosine nucleotide polymerase inhibitor for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection, as a fast track development program.”
Eradication of Hepatitis-C essential
ISLAMABAD: “Speakers at the “First Annual HCV Management Symposium” on Friday called for well thought-out efforts at individual and institutional level to eradicate the growing threat of the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) from the country.”
Contatus raises $20 million to fund trial of hepatitis C drug
“Conatus Pharmaceuticals said it raised $20 million from a group of venture capital funds to finance a Phase 2 clinical trial of the San Diego drug developer’s lead candidate, CTS-1027, which is being tested to treat hepatitis C.”
Senate hearing sought on Dayton VA dental clinic
DAYTON – “U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown on Friday called failures in infection control at the Dayton VA Medical Center’s dental clinic “an outrage” and requested a Senate hearing.”
Judge orders Vegas hepatitis doctor to hospital
LAS VEGAS (AP) – A Nevada judge is ordering the physician-clinic owner found mentally unfit for trial in a 2007 Las Vegas hepatitis C outbreak to surrender March 17 for evaluation at the state's mental hospital.
Single-use needle used on 53 patients at private clinic
AUSTRALIA – “Health authorities have launched an urgent investigation after more than 50 patients at a private radiology clinic were given blood tests using a needlestick device meant for single-patient use — potentially exposing them to hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV infection.”
State Health Department, Nassau Hospital Notify Patients Of Possible Hepatitis C Exposure
ALBANY, N.Y. (Feb. 7, 2011) “Four patients treated at South Nassau Communities Hospital Pain Management Center will receive letters this week advising them to be tested for hepatitis C, hepatitis B and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections.”
Week Ending February 6, 2011
Vertex Urges CDC to Recommend Hep C Screening, To Nudge “Second Tsunami” of Patients
“If Vertex Pharmaceuticals gets its way in talks with U.S. public health officials, most people over 50 could soon get blood tests to screen for hepatitis C infections at the doctor’s office. If the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) agrees this is a good idea, it could prompt another 1 million patients who don’t realize they are infected to come out of the woodwork and start clamoring for Vertex’s new hepatitis C drug over the next few years.”
The Daily Checkup: Liver cancer is on the rise but early screenings & treatment offer hope
“The specialist: Dr. James Park, on liver cancer and transplant
A transplant hepatologist and gastroenterologist at Mount Sinai Hospital, Dr. James Park treats patients who have general and advanced liver diseases, which range from viral hepatitis to cirrhosis and liver cancer (before and after liver transplantation). A majority of his patients have cirrhosis and liver cancer, and many of these patients receive liver transplants.”
Baby Boomers At Risk For Hepatitis C
Doctors Say Many Have Been Carrying Virus For Years
“Tim Sardina, 56, has lived a colorful life, but the color started to fade in 1993. "I participated in a blood drive at work and they called me afterward and said ‘You need to see a doctor,’" said Sardina.”
SF task force backs legal intravenous drug center
“A San Francisco task force charged with devising strategies for reducing Hepatitis C infections has recommended making the city the first in the U.S. with a drop-in center where intravenous drug users can obtain needles and shoot up.”
Peregrine initiates Phase Ib HCV and HIV coinfection trial
“Peregrine Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has announced the completion of enrollment in the company's Phase Ib dose escalation safety study of bavituximab in patients coinfected with chronic hepatitis C virus, or HCV, and HIV.”
Telaprevir Combo Yielded Sustained Virologic Response Rates Over 80%
“In patients with chronic hepatitis C, combining telaprevir with ribavirin and peginterferon alfa-2a or 2b yielded sustained virologic response rates of more than 80%, regardless of which type of interferon or which dosing regimen of telaprevir was used, Dr. Patrick Marcellin and his colleagues reported in the February issue of Gastroenterology.”
Medical marijuana business takes root
Caregivers step in to meet demand created by new state law
“When Ron Fousek started growing medical marijuana last February for a Portland man with HIV and hepatitis C, there were few people offering that service, he said.”
10,000 Hepatitis C patients could hold the key to better treatment
“Researchers at Barts and the London Medical School will be leading the London arm of a £2 million project to establish a database of 10,000 patients infected with hepatitis C.”
HIV-Positive Men Who Bareback Should Have More Frequent Hep C Testing
“A new study has found that 75 percent of new hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in HIV-positive men occurred in those with no history of injection drug use (IDU), mirroring other studies documenting a rise in cases of HCV infection in men who have sex with men (MSM) in Western Europe, Australia and urban cities in the United States.”
People With HIV Have Less Successful Hepatitis C Treatment And Poorer Outcomes Than People Without HIV
“A recent review of coinfection with HIV and hepatitis C has found that HIV causes hepatitis C to progress more quickly and that traditional therapies for hepatitis C are not as effective in people who have HIV. The review also noted that the prognosis was better for people who were taking antiretroviral therapy to treat their HIV than for people who were not.”
St. Louis VA center's hopes to resume surgeries next week after contamination worries
“Surgeries at St. Louis' Veterans Affairs medical center could resume next week after being abruptly halted over contamination concerns tied to stains and water spots found on some operating-room equipment, the center's director said Friday.”
Week Ending January 30, 2011
Wood Co. experiences rise in Hepatitis C
“The Wisconsin Division of Public Health is assisting the Wood County Health Department in investigating a recent increase in new Hepatitis C cases. Lincoln, Oneida, Portage, Marathon and Langlade counties also saw a spike in Hepatitis C infections.”
Study finds little decline in hepatitis C infections among injection drug users
Research suggests improvements in prevention and treatment efforts needed
“A recent 20-year study of injection drug users (IDUs) in Baltimore found a significant decline in new cases of HIV infection but only a slight decline in new cases of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The findings suggest that efforts to curb blood-borne transmission of these viral infections have had success but must be expanded against the highly transmissible HCV.”
Scientific finding aids anti-HCV therapy
“Taiwan's top research institute Academia Sinica announced new findings Friday on the hepatitis C virus (HCV) that could help refine anti HCV therapies in the future.”
Spotting Gene Variants May Boost Hepatitis C Treatment
Research zeroes in on patients with protection from drug-induced anemia
(HealthDay News) – “Scientists have pinpointed two gene variants that protect hepatitis C patients from anemia caused by antiviral treatment.”
Anadys Initiates Dosing in Phase IIb Study of ANA598
“Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced today that dosing has begun in the Phase IIb study of ANA598 in combination with pegylated interferon and ribavirin in hepatitis C patients.”
‘Silent killer’ stalks Poland
“Over 700,000 Poles are infected with the HCV virus, the cause of Hepatitis C, but only around 50,000 cases have been diagnosed and treated, say health experts.”
Week Ending January 24, 2011
New Hope for Hepatitis C, an Often Hidden Disease
“2011 is shaping up to be a landmark year for hepatitis C treatment. The Food and Drug Administration this summer could decide on whether to approve two drugs that are the first to directly target the hepatitis C virus (HCV) — Merck & Co.'s boceprevir and Vertex Pharmaceutical's telaprevir. Taken in combination with standard treatment, the drugs boost the cure rate for the most common form of the virus from 40 percent to as high as 75 percent. And they allow some patients to cut treatment time in half, lessening exposure to grueling side effects.”
Merck Says Hepatitis B Vaccine Safe; Unrelated to TG Swab Recall
“The hepatitis B vaccine and hepatitis C powder produced by healthcare company Merck are safe and are not affected by the recall of potentially contaminated Triad Group alcohol swab products, according to the manufacturer.”
Two-Thirds of Hepatitis C Patients Are Baby Boomers
“And they – and other sufferers of the liver–destroying virus – may get the benefit of a drug cocktail akin to the one that has made a huge difference for people with the AIDS virus.”
HCV Positive Kidney Failure Patients Can Receive Kidneys from HCV Positive Donors
“Liver diseases secondary to hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection are an important cause of mortality and morbidity in kidney transplant recipients and dialysis patients.”
Oshawa residents cautioned about potential exposure from tattoos, piercings
DURHAM – “Clients of a tattooist-piercer who provided services in the south Oshawa area may have been exposed to non-sterile equipment and they are being urged to call the Durham Region health department.”
Hepatitis C Information Growing Among Veterans
BEXLEY, Ohio – “Hepatitis C is striking Vietnam-era veterans at a rate five times the general public and a local man is working to get the word out.”
Local Group Helping Find Cure For Hepatitis C
Drug Trials In SA Seeing Promising Results
SAN ANTONIO – “The battle against Hepatitis C has been a short one compared to most diseases, even AIDS. The disease didn't even have its own name until 1989. But the short battle is already taking a major step to ending.”
UMMS begins MBL-HCV1 Phase 2 trial to prevent hepatitis C virus infection in liver transplant patients
“Following a successful Phase 1 study for safety, researchers at MassBiologics of the University of Massachusetts Medical School (UMMS) today announced the beginning of a Phase 2 clinical trial testing the ability of a human monoclonal antibody they developed to prevent hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection of a donor liver in transplant patients.”
Week Ending January 17, 2011
New drugs take aim at hepatitis C, spur debate on whether to test baby boomers
“There's new hope for an overlooked epidemic: Two powerful drugs are nearing the market that promise to help cure many more people of liver-attacking hepatitis C – even though most who have the simmering infection don't know it yet.”
Hepatitis C Cases Appearing in More Vietnam Veterans
“It is becoming a battle that doesn't end for Vietnam veterans. Medical writers researching VA medical centers claim that between 10 and 20 percent of veterans from the Vietnam era have hepatitis c.”
Britain Boosts Funds for Hepatitis C-Infected Patients
“On Monday, Britain's government announced it will provide more support for patients infected with hepatitis C virus through state health services in the 1970s and 1980s. Approximately £100 million to £130 million (US $159 million to $203 million) in additional support will be provided over the next five years for patients with serious liver disease linked to HCV infection through blood products or transfusions during the period.”
Bristol–Myers Squibb and Pharmasset to Collaborate for Proof of Concept Combination Study in Patients Chronically Infected with Hepatitis C
“Bristol–Myers Squibb Company and Pharmasset have announced that the companies have entered into a clinical collaboration agreement to evaluate the utility of BMS–790052, Bristol–Myers Squibb's NS5A replication complex inhibitor, in combination with PSI-7977, Pharmasset‘s nucleotide polymerase inhibitor, for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV).”
Gregg Allman has lived the blues many times over
“Gregg Allman has earned the torment in his singing voice to a degree that‘s ridiculous even for a bluesman. Tragic deaths of family members and bandmates, drug and alcohol addiction and much more have seared his soul over 63 years.”
Louisiana Outlines Appointments To HIV, AIDS, And Hepatitis C Commission
“The HIV, AIDS, and Hepatitis C Commission serves as an advisory body to the governor and the Department of Health and Hospitals on AIDS, HIV and Hepatitis C related matters.”
Anemia during Hepatitis C Treatment Predicts Sustained Response to Pegylated Interferon/ribavirin
“Anemia is a common side effect of treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, due to red blood cell destruction (hemolytic anemia) caused by ribavirin and bone marrow suppression related to interferon.”
Peregrine Begins Phase II Trial Of Bavituximab In Chronic Hepatitis Cv
“Peregrine Pharmaceuticals Inc. said it has initiated a mid-stage clinical trial in patients with previously untreated genotype-1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.”
Week Ending January 9, 2011
Boceprevir, Merck’s Investigational Oral Hepatitis C Protease Inhibitor, Receives FDA Priority Review And EMA Accelerated Assessment
“Merck, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, announced today that regulatory applications for boceprevir, Merck's investigational oral hepatitis C virus (HCV) protease inhibitor, were submitted in 2010 and have been accepted for expedited review in both the U.S. and the European Union.”
Many hepatitis C patients also have HIV
“Individuals who have hepatitis C (HCV) may benefit from HIV testing as well, as many of those with the infection also have the potentially deadly STD.”
Researchers find biomarker that predicts treatment outcomes for hepatitis C patients
“Following a positive hepatitis C test, there are several treatment options an individual can take. Now, a team of researchers has reported in the Journal of Clinical Investigation that they have found a biomarker that may predict the success of certain treatments.”
Livin' For Racin' Time
“Just talking to a family friend changed the meaning of racing for the Dale family forever. Donnie Dale has been racing for years and got the idea to give up his advertising on his car for the get tested Hepatitis C cause. His decision not only impacted his racing but the family as well. Susan Dale, Donnie's younger sister, stepped in to help but she wasn't sure he could race without a sponsor.”
Syringe-exchange programs can save money, lives
Legislature has easy way to cut spending in Texas
“As legislators prepare for what is sure to be an especially jam-packed, fun-filled session full of tales of budget woes and despair, there is still reason for hope.”
Steady Hepatitis C mortality rates disappoint in Australia
NEW YORK (Reuters Health) – “In Australia in the past few years, death rates in patients with hepatitis C virus have not increased - but they haven't improved, either, researchers say.”
The long road to awareness
“A Wellington man is walking to raise awareness for a disease which is not often publicised in Australia.”
Week Ending January 3, 2011
FDA Prioritizes Hepatitis C
“The pharmaceutical industry has identified the tremendous gap between effective Hepatitis C treatment and adequacy of the currently approved Hepatitis C antiviral drugs. Improvements in training, research and drug development are getting closer to narrowing the gap in eliminating the Hepatitis C virus, but an equally intensive effort for approving medications is warranted.”
Mutations in the E2-PePHD region of hepatitis C virus genotype-3a and correlation with response to interferon and ribavirin combination therapy in Pakistani patients
“Hepatitis C is a major health problem affecting more than 200 million individuals in the world. Current treatment regimen consisting of interferon alpha and ribavirin does not always succeed in eliminating the virus completely from patient's body.”
Scripps Research Scientists Identify Key Interaction In Hepatitis C Virus
“Scientists from the Florida campus of The Scripps Research Institute have identified a molecular interaction between a structural hepatitis C virus protein (HCV) and a protein critical to viral replication. This new finding strongly suggests a novel method of inhibiting the production of the virus and a potential new therapeutic target for hepatitis C drug development.”
Teen Donates Liver To Save Dad's Life
Family Had To Wait Two Years Before Surgery
BURLINGTON, Mass. – ”"Two days after Easter, I woke up in the morning or was woken by my wife. And I had no idea who she was, where I was," said Father Jack Fles, a minister from Maine.”
Seafood safety concerns for those with liver disease
“Last week (hallelujah!), there was progress in Washington, D.C. After a Senate vote in November edged us one step closer to better food safety in the U.S., the House of Representatives also approved the bill. The reform is long overdue.”
Week Ending December 26, 2010
Vertex announces modification of Phase II hepatitis C virus trial
“Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated, a biotechnology company, has announced a modification of its Phase II clinical trial evaluating 12-week, response-guided regimens of its lead investigational hepatitis C virus, or HCV, protease inhibitor, telaprevir, in combination with its lead investigational HCV polymerase inhibitor, VX-222.”
Idera announces data of Phase 1 clinical trial of hepatitis C drug
“Idera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has announced the preliminary data from a 4-week dose-ranging Phase 1 clinical trial of IMO-2125 in combination with ribavirin in 60 treatment-naive patients with genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C virus infection.”
Inverness hepatitis C victim sets up group to help fellow sufferers
“An Inverness man who contracted hepatitis C after taking drugs has set up a support group for fellow sufferers. Ronnie Elson caught the blood-borne virus which predominantly infects the cells of the liver after recreationally using drugs 20 years ago.”
HIV and Hepatitis B and C Incidence Rates in US Correctional Populations and High Risk Groups: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
“High Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevalence and high risk behaviors have been well documented within United States (US) correctional systems. However, uncertainty remains regarding the extent to which placing people in prison or jail increases their risk of HIV infection, and regarding which inmate populations experience an increased incidence of HIV.”
Week Ending December 19, 2010
Hepatitis an often-hidden, chronic disease
“Hepatitis is a term used to refer to inflammation of the liver.
There are many different causes of hepatitis, including alcohol use, diseases of the immune system and certain medications. Hepatitis is also caused by a number of viruses. Among the most common of these in the United States is hepatitis C infection.”
Condom Mobile brings HIV testing, education to doorsteps
“Meet Lisa Walker, the Condom Lady.
In public places, people call after the 40-year-old mother of four (and grandmother of two), “Hey, Condom Lady!” The less-acquainted ask Walker if she really is who folks say she is. Her boss wants to get her a T-shirt that reads, “Yes, I am the Condom Lady.””
Hepatitis C study: Drug fails
“SciClone Pharmaceuticals Inc. said Wednesday that its drug candidate SCV-07 failed to meet its key goal of treating Hepatitis C in a midstage study, prompting a cancellation of the program.”
Hepatitis Experts Create Roadmap for Accelerating the Development of Targeted Therapies for Hepatitis
“To improve the care for individuals infected with the hepatitis C virus, a major health problem and a leading cause of chronic liver disease around the world, nearly 200 international hepatitis experts have taken an important step in escalating the introduction of a new class of targeted therapies for HCV – direct-acting antivirals (DAAs).”
Health Studies Cited for Transplant Cuts Put Under the Knife
Arizona Defends Its Changes to Medicaid
“Cash-strapped Arizona has drawn national scrutiny for its decision to drop Medicaid coverage for some organ transplants as the state tries to plug a $1 billion gap in its health-care budget for next year.”
Infectious diseases kill thousands: Ontario study
TORONTO – “Infectious diseases kill nearly 4,900 people in Ontario each year, and cause more than seven million illnesses, estimates a report released Tuesday.”
Amarillo Biosciences Announces Completion of Patient Enrollment in Phase 2 Hepatitis C Trial
“Amarillo Biosciences, Inc. today announced that enrollment in a Phase 2 clinical trial of 165 patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection is now complete. The clinical trial is being conducted in Taiwan and funded by ABI's strategic partner, CytoPharm, Inc. The aim of the study is to reduce the virologic relapse rate for those patients who have successfully completed standard combination therapy for hepatitis C, which consists of injectable interferon alpha and Ribavirin.”
European recommendations issued on acute hepatitis C infection in patients with HIV
“European investigators and activists have developed recommendations for the management of acute hepatitis C infection in patients with HIV.”
The Voices of Hepatitis
“One in 20 people will come into contact with hepatitis virus at some point, but fortunately, only a small percentage develop a lasting case of the disease. Still, millions suffer from a chronic form of hepatitis.”
Pharmasset Starts Dosing In An Exploratory Study Of PSI-7977 For Chronic HCV
“Pharmasset, Inc. Tuesday said that dosing has started in an exploratory study of PSI-7977, a nucleotide analog polymerase inhibitor, for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C or HCV.”
Week Ending December 12, 2010
Hepatitis C Experts Sought for FDA Advisory Committee
“The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to assist in its mission to protect and promote the public health, uses 49 committees and panels to obtain independent expert advice on scientific, technical, and policy matters.”
Safe Sharps Disposal Service Needed in Australia
Through the National Needle and Syringe Program the Australia Government hands out over 30,000,000 syringes annually, with no strict regulation of where they end up afterwards . Australians self-inject at home to treat diabetes, allergies, HIV, rheumatoid arthritis, MS and other medical conditions.
‘A Perfect Match’ In More Ways Than One
ESSEX – “It was 27 years ago that Essex resident Paul Sullivan was involved in a motor vehicle accident that left him with severe injuries, most notably the loss of one arm.”
An Epidemic Hits Home
“If you were Meg Heckman's boss or colleague or casual acquaintance, you'd easily imagine her to be the picture of health: She is a runner and a skier. She is careful about what she eats. She has a sunny, can-do
attitude and the stamina for long hours of hard work.”
1.8m Suffering From Hepatitis
KARACHI – “Health experts have expressed their serious concerns over the lack of proper care of liver patients in the country and said that more than 1.8 million people are suffering from Hepatitis B and C in the country.”
Hepatitis C Man Bit Aberdeen Security Guard
32-year-old jailed for 15 months over attack
“A man who bit an Aberdeen security guard and told him he would be infected with a disease has been jailed.”
SeraCare Introduces New HCV Seroconversion Panels
“SeraCare Life Sciences, a leading expert in human biologicals and the manufacturer of ACCURUN® controls, introduces two new, highly characterized HCV seroconversion panels designed to help diagnostic manufacturers and clinical laboratories effectively evaluate their HCV test systems.”
City Awarded Health-Related Grants
“The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has received a $4.2 million, three-year grant from the California Department of Health Services to finance HIV and AIDS preventive health services in the city.”
Criminalizing Needles Is Ineffective
We need needle exchange programs to slow the spread of blood-borne infections – not more incarceration.
“If you could severely mitigate the spread of the HIV, AIDS, and hepatitis C, would you?”
Syringe Exchanges: A Vital Ounce of Prevention
“Health care reform is more than just a multibillion–dollar government expenditure, it is a fundamental shift in the way we think about health care. Instead of solely funding treatment programs, Congress is finally investing in prevention – and in a big way.”
Cape May County Hosts Advisory Group for Safe Injection Practices
“The Cape May County Department of Health (CMCDH) hosted the first meeting of the Cape May County Advisory Group for Safe Injection Practices on November 29th.”
Week Ending December 5, 2010
Hepatitis C Vaccine Elicits Immune Response in Some Patients
“A therapeutic vaccine against the hepatitis C virus was associated with a significantly higher sustained virologic response rate when added to standard-of-care treatment, and the findings justify further development of the vaccine, Dr. Paul Pockros reported at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases.”
Number of reported cases of Hepatitis C on increase in county
Carlton County Public Health and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) sent out a notice Wednesday alerting local health care providers of an increase in reported chronic Hepatitis C cases in Carlton County.
“Carlton County Public Health and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) sent out a notice Wednesday alerting local health care providers of an increase in reported chronic Hepatitis C cases in Carlton County.”
Hepatitis C pouncing on Boomers at midlife
“Forget your assumptions about who gets hepatitis: The addicts. The inmates. The prostitutes.
Hepatitis, especially hepatitis C, is very much a Baby Boomer's disease.”
B.C. cast wider net with cutting-edge HIV-AIDS testing
VANCOUVER – “A cutting-edge HIV-AIDS program in B.C. is now casting a much wider net as it tries to curb the spread of the potentially deadly disease.”
Arizona Budget Cuts Boot Patients From Transplant List
“Anger is growing in Arizona after the state cut critical funding to low-income transplant patients and left dozens of gravely ill people scrambling to raise the funds for the lifesaving procedures on their own.“
Lecture Brings Attention to Infection Control Risk Faced by Orthodontic Professionals
“Mary Govoni, CDA, RDH, MBA, past president of the American Dental Hygienists Association, spoke at the Greater New York Dental Society Meeting about infection control and the risks orthodontic and dental professionals face during procedures.”
HIV and Hepatitis C "ravaging" city: report
Intravenous drug users and homosexual men are most vulnerable
“Public health officials say they are extremely concerned about the rising number of cases of Hepatitis C and HIV on Montreal Island.”
On Eve of World Aids Day, Yee Recommits To Sterile Syringe Bill
SACRAMENTO – “On the eve of World AIDS Day, Senator Leland Yee (D-San Francisco) is hoping Governor-elect Jerry Brown (D-Oakland) will heed the advice of doctors, pharmacists, and AIDS prevention advocates, by signing legislation to allow pharmacies to sell sterile syringes to an adult without a prescription.”
Safe injection sites will open with or without permission
Minister wants to wait for Supreme Court ruling
“Addiction support groups are preparing to open safe-injection sites for drug addicts in Montreal and Quebec City next June, even if the province doesn't approve them.”
Week Ending November 28, 2010
A Reason to Give Thanks
“A month after receiving a long overdue liver transplant, a Montgomery man and his family are counting their blessings and giving thanks for his second chance t life.”
Rep. Hank Johnson regains his health, puts on 40 pounds
“Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) may be one of the few Americans this holiday season who is thrilled about gaining weight.”
Veterans should seek test for hepatitis C
“In 1969, I returned from duty in Vietnam. It was not until 1987, 18 years later, that symptoms of disease showed up and I was diagnosed with hepatitis C. The Veterans Administration confirmed the problem and subsequently treated me, unsuccessfully, for the disease.”
Roche has ended its agreement with Ligand Pharma after two years.
“The two firms signed a collaboration and license agreement to develop new treatments for hepatitis C viral infections in 2008, but Roche is exercising its right to terminate the agreement.”
Vertex submits application for hepatitis C drug
“Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. said today that it has completed the submission of a New Drug Application that seeks regulatory approval for telaprevir, a hepatitis C drug candidate with the potential to generate billions of dollars in annual revenue.”
Unlicensed London tattoo parlour closed; clients warned to get hepatitis, HIV tests
LONDON, Ont. – “The Middlesex-London Health Unit is sending out a warning to people who got a tattoo or a body piercing in the basement of an east London, Ont., townhouse.”
USF wins federal grant for Hepatitis C treatments
“The University of South Florida is among 16 organizations nationally to win part of a $1.6 million in grants from the Health Resources and Services Administration.”
Week Ending November 21, 2010
HRSA Awards $1.6 Million to Improve Availability and Expansion of Hepatitis C (HCV) Treatment
“The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has awarded $1.6 million in grants to support the Hepatitis C Treatment Expansion Initiative. The funds will aid organizations implementing effective, focused interventions designed to increase access to and completion of Hepatitis C (HCV) treatment for HIV-positive patients.”
Advances made in developing hepatitis C vaccine
“Scientists are zeroing in on a promising vaccine to treat hepatitis C, an international symposium was told Friday in Montreal.”
Medivir Gains as Early Study Shows Drug Kills Hepatitis C Virus
“Medivir AB, the drugmaker competing to develop a new hepatitis C medicine, rose the most in four months in Stockholm trading after its drug reduced the virus to undetectable levels in patients who failed earlier treatment.”
Don't fix budget at the cost of life
“When the Legislature eliminated coverage for some organ transplants under AHCCCS, it was a line on a budget. When a desperately ill man was denied a liver transplant, we saw the life-and-death stakes of that decision.”
Hepatitis C: is immunity on the horizon?
“More than 250,000 Canadians are infected with the highly infectious, chronic liver disease Hepatitis C, which is caused by the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV). The virus continues to spread in a variety of ways such as needle sharing, unsanitary tattooing, pedicures and manicures, and unprotected sex.”
OraSure honored for new rapid hepatitis C test
“One of the latest products from OraSure Technologies, a rapid test for hepatitis C, has been recognized by the magazine Popular Science as one of the top 100 technological innovations of the year.”
The Hepatitis C Virus Drug Market Will Nearly Triple by 2014 but, Thereafter, the Market Will Decline Substantially Through 2019 Due to Decreasing Disease Prevalence and the High Efficacy of New Treatments
“Decision Resources, one of the world's leading research and advisory firms for pharmaceutical and healthcare issues, finds that, owing to the launch of several novel agents, the hepatitis C virus (HCV) drug market will more than triple from approximately $2 billion in 2009 to nearly $7.5 billion in 2014 in the United States, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom and Japan.”
Week Ending November 14, 2010
The severe problem of Hepatitis C in Egypt
“Egypt, known for the pyramids and the Sphinx, also has a much less desirable notable; it has the highest incidence rate of hepatitis C in the world.”
Poking holes in harm reduction bylaws
Abbotsford has some of the highest Hep C rates in B.C.
“Abbotsford's anti-harm reduction bylaw is a major factor driving the city's high Hepatitis C rates, according to experts.”
Combo Therapy With Ribavirin Superior in Children With Hep C
“In children and adolescents with the hepatitis C virus, the combination of peginterferon alfa-2a and ribavirin is effective for achieving sustained virologic response, according to a study published online Nov. 1 in Gastroenterology.”
Repeat Viral Testing of IVF Couples Not Needed: Study
“Running repeat tests for HIV and hepatitis B and C on couples before each cycle of in-vitro fertilization treatment is unnecessary, a new study suggests. The initial screening is enough if the couple reports no new risk factors, according to Drs. Mary Wingfield and Evelyn Cottell of the Merrion Fertility Clinic in Dublin.”
Phase III Results: Telaprevir, Boceprevir Improve HCV Cure Rates
“BOSTON – the forthcoming availability of the protease inhibitors telaprevir and boceprevir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C is likely to vastly improve virologic response rates and cut treatment times, but experts warn that such advancements need to be balanced against the "huge potential" for misuse of the agents and the need to manage side effects and monitor for antiviral resistance.”
Hepatitis C Substantially Impacts U.S. Work Productivity
Kantar Health Research Wins Presidential Poster of Distinction Award at 2010 AASLD Meeting
“Hepatitis C (HCV) places a burden on U.S. employers because of increased work productivity loss for those with the virus, according to the National Health and Wellness Survey, conducted by Kantar Health and presented recently in a poster at the 2010 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) annual meeting. The study also suggests that HCV places a substantial burden on the U.S. healthcare system because of an increased number of emergency room and physician visits.”
Hep C-infected haemophiliacs seek compensation
“Haemophiliacs infected by contaminated blood supplies more than 20 years ago say they are still trying to get financial support from the Federal Government.”
Week Ending November 7, 2010
Better Hepatitis C Surveillance Helps Public, CDC Finds
Health departments' program seems to provide more accurate, timely reporting
(HealthDay News) – “Enhanced surveillance of acute hepatitis C infections in the United States offers more timely and complete case reporting that provides greater benefits to public health, a new study concludes.”
Merck releases results from phase-3 studies of hepatitis C drug
“An investigative treatment for hepatitis C got strong results in patients who had failed previous treatments or who were new to treatment, according to results of a late-stage clinical trial program announced this week.”
Abbott and Enanta Present Positive Initial Results from Phase 2 Study of ABT-450/r for Treatment of Hepatitis C
“Abbott Park, Illinois, and Watertown, Massachusetts — Abbott and Enanta Pharmaceuticals today announced positive results from a Phase 2 study of ABT-450/r, an investigational, oral protease inhibitor being developed for the treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) infection. Initial 3-day and 4-week results suggest that ABT-450/r (ABT-450 with 100mg of ritonavir to support once-daily dosing) demonstrates potent antiviral activity in treatment-naïve adults.”
Bad Medicine: When Doctors Tip Off Wall Street
“How do a French doctor and a Connecticut hedge fund manager strike up a friendship that leads to the doctor being charged with passing along inside information about a hepatitis C drug trial?”
Growth Factor Drugs Bolster Compliance in Hepatitis C Therapy
“Having cirrhosis, diabetes, or substance use disorder increased the odds of treatment discontinuation in type 1 hepatitis C virus infection, whereas use of growth factor drugs correlated with treatment persistence, reported Dr. Lauren A. Beste and colleagues in the November issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.”
Hepatitis C team in national final
“Staff treating hepatits C patients at Taunton’s Musgrove Park Hospital have been named one of the top three acute hospital teams nationwide.”
Vertex nearing goal on hepatitis C drug
“After years of developing what it hopes will be a blockbuster drug to treat the hepatitis C virus, Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Cambridge is rapidly closing in on its goal: a product that could generate billions of dollars in annual revenue.”
Week Ending October 31, 2010
NVHR Welcomes Dr. Koh's Remarks at AASLD, But Warns that Viral Hepatitis Battle Demands Decisive National Leadership
“In a keynote address delivered yesterday afternoon on chronic viral hepatitis, one of the Administration's top health officials provided an outline of the forthcoming HHS "federal action plan" on viral hepatitis and pledged renewed federal leadership to translate this plan into reality. Dr. Howard Koh, U.S. Assistant Secretary of Health at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, made the remarks before thousands of liver health experts at the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD) 61st annual meeting in Boston.”
Bristol-Myers, Gilead Seek AIDS Cocktail Success in Hepatitis C
“Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and Gilead Sciences Inc., makers of the top-selling combination pills for AIDS, are trying to duplicate their success to combat another evasive virus, hepatitis C.”
Inhibitex Initiates Phase 1b Multiple Ascending Dose Trial of INX-189 in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Proof of Concept Study to Evaluate INX-189 as Monotherapy and in Combination with Ribavirin
“Inhibitex, Inc., announced today that it has initiated a Phase 1b, multiple ascending dose (MAD) clinical trial of INX-189, its nucleotide polymerase inhibitor in development for the treatment of chronic infections caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV).”
Anadys presents data of ANA598 for hepatitis C treatment at AASLD Annual Meeting
“Anadys Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ANDS) today announced the ANA598 data to be presented at the 61st Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease (AASLD) in Boston, MA.”
Biolex Presents at AASLD Meeting Significant Tolerability Advantages of Locteron®, Its Next-Generation Interferon for Hepatitis C
“Locteron Phase 2b Results Include Statistically Significant Reduction of Flu-Like Adverse Events Confirmed by Two Independent Reporting Methods; Locteron's Tolerability and Dosing Advantages and Strong Efficacy Make It a Highly Combinable Interferon for Use With Future Direct-Acting Anti-Viral Combinations.”
Race Affects Hepatitis C Recurrence After Liver Transplant: Study
Patients who receive organ from a white donor at higher risk, researchers find
(HealthDay News) – “Hepatitis C patients who receive a liver from a white donor have significantly more aggressive recurrent hepatitis than those who receive a liver from a black donor, researchers have found.”
Hepatitis C outbreak hits Becker, Mahnomen — Can be passed by sharing needles
“An upward trend in the number of Hepatitis C cases reported in Becker and Mahnomen counties this year has drawn the attention of the Minnesota Department of Health.”
Week-24 Interim Results From Phase 2b PILLAR Study to be Presented as Late-Breaker at AASLD
“Tibotec Pharmaceuticals (Tibotec) announced today the company will present the results of a Week-24 planned interim analysis of the phase 2 response-guided PILLAR study in treatment-naive patients with chronic genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) at the 61st Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) in Boston, MA., USA. The data will be presented as part of a late-breaker oral presentation on Monday, November 1.”
Boehringer Ingelheim Oral Hepatitis C Protease Inhibitor and Polymerase Inhibitor Combination Shows Rapid Viral Response without Use of Pegylated Interferon
“Boehringer Ingelheim announced results from a Phase Ib study, SOUND-C1, that showed the combination of two oral hepatitis C virus (HCV) compounds, the protease inhibitor BI 201335 and the polymerase inhibitor BI 207127, with ribavirin reduced viral load to the lower limit of quantifiable levels in HCV treatment-naïve patients.”
Week Ending October 17, 2010
QIAGEN and Abbott Enter Into Agreement on Molecular Tests for HIV, HCV and HPV
“QIAGEN and Abbott today announced that they have entered into an agreement that significantly strengthens both companies' testing menus for automated in-vitro diagnostic applications in the United States and Canada. Financial terms were not disclosed.”
Pioneer backs Mt Druitt Hospital syringe machine site
“ONE of Australia’s top drug experts has backed Mt Druitt Hospital’s syringe exchange. A coin-operated syringe machine and sharps disposal bin near the hospital entrance on Luxford Rd was installed by Sydney West Area Health Service (SWAHS) three months ago to reduce the spread of infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C.”
Liver diseases linked to environmental pollution
“Most liver complaints are linked to environmental pollution, an Egyptian liver specialist has claimed. “No one these days believe that liver diseases are related to bilharzia. On the other hand, many diseases, particularly those affecting the liver, are caused by the excessive use of insecticides inside and outside homes,” Dr. Muhammad Sirag Zakaria, vice-president of the European Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and hepato-gastrologist at Cairo University’s Qasr Medical College, told Arab News.”
Hope for liver cancer
“On New Year's Eve 2008, Bobby Potter was told he had liver cancer and six months to live. Bobby joined a study started by Doctor Melanie Thomas after she heard how a new treatment -- using two different drugs -- was helping kidney cancer.”
Alejandro Escovedo gets a new lease on life
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – “After a very busy year with lots of shows, including a European tour and a two-month residency at the Continental Club in Austin, Texas singer/songwriter Alejandro Escovedo has a new album out, "Street Songs of Love." He's also on the road, getting ready for another European tour, and on Sunday, he plays "Mountain Stage."”
New Hepatitis C Drugs in the Works
Study Show 2 Experimental Drugs Are Able to Reduce Virus Levels in Blood
“The long wait for new drugs that cure hepatitis C virus (HCV) may soon be over.”
Experts Rally To Get European Commitment To Halting The Hepatitis B And C Epidemic
“In an unprecedented move to address the public health threat that viral hepatitis represents across the European Union (EU), leading physicians, scientists and patient groups demanded policy action[i] from EU officials at today's Summit Conference on Hepatitis B and C.”
When the gift of life is quite literal
Donate a liver or kidney to save one
“Darrell Herlinger was born prematurely and was hospitalized for several months. His care included multiple blood transfusions.”
Week Ending September 26, 2010
NVHR Welcomes Support of National Hepatitis C Advocacy Council In Fight to Address Chronic Viral Hepatitis
Washington, DC – “The National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) is pleased to welcome the National Hepatitis C Advocacy Council — the nation’s first community-based hepatitis C advocacy coalition — to its ranks and looks forward to building on the Council’s hard-fought successes in the public policy arena, NVHR announced today. Given the depth and breadth of NVHR’s reach, the Council will now unite with NVHR and allow the community to speak with one voice.”
Millions of Americans Are Living with Hidden Epidemics of Hepatitis B and C, Top Experts Warn
WASHINGTON, D.C., September 27, 2010 – “The American Association for the Study
of Liver Diseases (AASLD) and the Trust for America’s Health (TFAH) issued a new
report today calling for action to be taken to transform how the country deals with viral
hepatitis – to help identify millions of Americans who know they are living with chronic
forms of hepatitis B and C and to assure access to treatment for all who need it, to
prevent even more Americans from becoming infected.”
Blacks are under-represented in clinical trials
“Clinical trials are common for new drugs that claim to treat chronic or even life-threatening illnesses. The success of those drugs depends on a diverse group of participants, but blacks are often under-represented.”
Liver Cancer and Hep C Patients
(HealthDay News) – “People with elevated hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA and ALT levels and HCV genotype 1 appear to be at increased risk for developing hepatocellular carcinoma, according to research published online Sept. 20 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.”
Cleveland syringe exchange a point of pride: editorial
“When Cleveland started its syringe exchange program for drug addicts in 1995, there were fears that giving addicts new needles for old ones would send the wrong message and lure people to take up heroin and other injection drugs.”
Weight-Based Dosing Best for New HCV Drug
“When given in doses based on weight, an investigational prodrug of ribavirin had efficacy comparable to ribavirin in chronic hepatitis C but with less hemolytic anemia, researchers reported.”
NICE’s publishes 200th guidance to better tackle Hepatitis C
“The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has reached a milestone with the publication of its 200th technology appraisal guidance, on the use of peginterferon alfa and ribavirin for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C.”
Merck Significantly Expands its Patient Assistance Program Offerings to Provide Access to More Medicines for People in Need
“Today, Merck announced that it has significantly expanded the number of Merck medicines available through its Merck Helps(TM) patient assistance programs, which include the Merck Patient Assistance Program, the Merck Vaccine Patient Assistance Program, the ACT Program for Oncology and Hepatitis C medicines, and the SUPPORT(R) Program for HIV/AIDS medicines.”
Epocrates, CDC develop injection safety mobile program
“With more than a million healthcare professionals—including 40 percent of U.S. physicians—using Epocrates reference software, many of them on mobile devices, the San Mateo, Calif.-based company seems like a natural partner for a nationwide medical education program.”
Health Danger of Parties Past
“Most people think their wild-child past is just that—in the past. But some former party animals may be carrying a harmful reminder of their youth and not know it.”
Week Ending September 19, 2010
Partial Hep C Treatment Response Offers Health Benefits
“Even a partial response to hepatitis C virus (HCV) therapy confers significant health benefits to people coinfected with both HIV and HCV, though not as much as a full response. These data were presented September 14 at the 50th Annual Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (ICAAC) in Boston.””
AMD Global Telemedicine, Inc. Brings Telemedicine to Inmates of Illinois
AMD Global Telemedicine's General Exam Camera and Telephonic Stethoscope have been chosen for use in a correctional telemedicine pilot program to treat Illinois inmates of HIV and Hepatitis C
“AMD Global Telemedicine, the world's leading supplier of telemedicine technology, devices, and application software for both dynamic encounters (live telemedicine) and deferred consultations, is happy to announce that its telemedicine solutions have been selected by the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) for a pilot program to treat inmates using telemedicine.”
Alcohol, diabetes, hepatitis up liver cancer risk: study
“Heavy alcohol use, diabetes, and viral hepatitis combine synergistically to raise the risk of developing liver cancer, according to a new report.”
Epocrates Smartphone App Helps CDC Educate Clinicians on Safe Injection Practices
SAN MATEO, Calif.–“The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Epocrates, Inc. are educating healthcare professionals about safe injection practices conveniently and effectively on their smartphone devices. Epocrates’ EssentialPoints® mobile detailing program provides healthcare professionals with key lessons that can be applied directly to patient care.”
Bismarck marathoner comes back from illness to race
“About three years ago, Tim Lickteig of Bismarck was devastated when a blood test revealed that his fatigue and other symptoms were being caused by the hepatitis C virus.”
Court Victory Bittersweet for Hepatitis C Victim
LAS VEGAS – “The battle is far from over for Henry Chanin and his wife, Lorraine. Even though the couple was awarded $505 million in the valley's first hepatitis C civil lawsuit, it could be years before they see a penny. They say the case was never about money.”
Sadie Frost launches film competition on Hepatitis C
“Are you a budding filmmaker? Actors Sadie Frost and Tom Hardy have launched a national short film competition with the Hepatitis C Trust and Steel Mill Pictures.”
Obesity key cause of liver problem in India
“Obesity is contributing to steep rise in liver problems in the country, a liver transplant surgeon said Saturday.”
Week Ending September 12, 2010
Hepatitis C Spikes Among Young Heroin Users
BOSTON – “Heroin, a drug that claims nearly two lives in Massachusetts every day, killed a young woman in Cambridge late last month. She had just turned 18 when she overdosed alone in a bathroom.”
Schwarzenegger urged to sign sterile syringe bill
“Actor and author Christopher Kennedy Lawford, the cousin of California’s First Lady Maria Shriver and nephew of the late President John F. Kennedy, has called on Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R-Los Angeles) to sign legislation to allow pharmacies to sell sterile syringes to adults.”
Sadie Frost launches film competition on Hepatitis C
“Are you a budding filmmaker? Actors Sadie Frost and Tom Hardy have launched a national short film competition with the Hepatitis C Trust and Steel Mill Pictures.”
For biotechs, no easy task
“Hepatitis C, a serious medical problem around the world, is also one of the most important disease targets for the state’s biotechnology industry.”
TV Show Delivers Hope for Hepatitis C
“As the number of people receiving a Hepatitis C diagnosis grows, media attention focusing on this virus has intensified. Education about the prevalence and potential severity of Hepatitis C is badly needed to raise awareness of this highly communicable and often asymptomatic (until it's too late) disease.”
Tattoos Linked to Rise in Hepatitis C
“FNC medical contributor Dr. Marc Siegel argues there should be more government oversight over tattoo parlors.”
Medivir Presenting at the National Swedish Hepatitis Meeting - Clinical Update on TMC435 HCV-Protease Inhibitor
“Medivir AB, the biopharmaceutical company focused on infectious diseases caused by viruses, will today present a clinical update on its key drug, TMC435, a potential blockbuster therapy against Hepatitis C which is partnered with Tibotec, at the National Swedish Hepatitis Meeting.”
Bristol-Myers Squibb Hopes to Strengthen Hepatitis C Pipeline With Latest Buy
“Continuing its string of pearls philosophy, Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMY) has agreed to pay in cash for ZymoGenetics (ZGEN), which is developing a hepatitis C compound that was the focus of a collaboration between the two companies beginning early last year.”
Vertex hepatitis C drug helps the hard-to-treat
Vertex says telaprevir outperformed other drugs in patients not helped by prior HepC treatment
“Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. said Tuesday that a late-stage clinical trial showed its hepatitis C drug candidate telaprevir proved effective for patients who hadn't been helped by other treatments.”
2006 Hepatitis C Awareness Telethon a Great Success
Hep C Aware and the Caring Ambassadors Hepatitis C Program (CAP-Hepatitis C) are pleased to report the overwhelming success of the 2006 Hepatitis C Awareness Telethon. Both CAP-Hepatitis C and Hep C Aware thank everyone who donated to the ongoing hepatitis C awareness campaign. We especially thank all the volunteers who spent their weekend working 15 hour days to help. KVMD employees you were fantastic! Thank you.
If you missed the live show, it is available online at www.alternative.nu. Donations are still being accepted.
The live telecast on the local television station in Los Angeles was very popular with viewers. If you have local television contacts, please let us know. We hope to simulcast the event to a broader TV audience next year.
Mark your calendars for October 2007 for next year's Hepatitis C Awareness Telethon!
Hepatitis C Testing Sites Interactive List Launched by CAP-Hepatitis C
The Caring Ambassadors Hepatitis C Program (CAP-Hepatitis C) has announced the official launch of the Hepatitis C Testing Sites List. This project is a state-based list of facilities that offer hepatitis C testing at a reduced cost, sliding scale, or free-of-charge.
The Hepatitis C Testing Sites list is the only comprehensive list of its kind available in the U.S.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 75% of the 4 to 5 million American infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) are unaware of their status. Hepatitis C counseling and testing are essential components of HCV control, prevention, and medical management, which is why CAP-Hepatitis C believes this new tool to be an important step forward in bringing the hepatitis C crisis under control.
