Progressing towards global hepatitis C elimination: a systematic review and meta-analysis of care cascades in key populations.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a global health concern, with cascade gaps hindering elimination. We aim to assess and compare HCV care cascades in four key populations: people living with HIV (PLHIV), people who inject drugs (PWID), men who have sex with men (MSM), and incarcerated individuals.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies (Jan 2019-Sept 2025) reporting ≥1 care cascade stage, including screening, confirmatory testing, linkage to care, treatment uptake and completion, and cure, among key populations (PROSPERO CRD42024577740). Four databases were searched. Pooled stage-specific proportions were estimated using random-effects meta-analysis, stratified by population and region.

Findings

We included 219 stu

SUBMITTER: Zou Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12906211 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature