Hepatitis C: tackling the silent epidemic.

Chronic hepatitis C virus infection is responsible for a significant and growing burden on NHS services. It is one of the commonest causes of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, and the leading indication for liver transplantation. Major advances have been made in treatment, which can eradicate the virus in more than 50% of patients and reduce complications, but progress is hampered by inadequate detection and access to treatment.