Significant amelioration of hepatitis C virus infection in a hyperendemic area: longitudinal evidence from the COMPACT Study in Taiwan

ObjectivesHepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the leading cause of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide. Tzukuan, located in the southwestern area of Taiwan, is an HCV hyperendemic area (>30%). This study aimed to assess the changing epidemiological characteristics of HCV infection and to evaluate the long-term outcomes after the implementation of public health strategies for two decades.DesignA population-based retrospective cohort study.SettingA comprehensive care programme was implemented, namely COMPACT Study, in Tzukuan since 1997.ParticipantsA total of 10 714 residents participated the screening.Outcome measuresThe HCV status, demographic and clinical profiles of the participants were recorded and validated annually from 2000 through 2019.ResultsThe HCV infection prevalence rates were 21.1% (1076/5099) in 2000–2004, 18.8% (239/1269) in 2005–2009, 14.1% (292/2071) in 2010–2014 and 10.3% (234/2275) in 2015–2019 (p for trend test