:
ROLE
You are a news editor and SEO strategist.
An international study published in *The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology* and led by the World Health association (WHO) has raised concerns about the current models of care for Hepatitis B, finding they are unable to keep patients within the healthcare system over time, threatening the 2030 global elimination goal [[1]]. The research analyzed data from over 1.7 million people with chronic Hepatitis B across 50 countries [[2]]. Each stage of care, from diagnosis to long-term treatment, experiences notable patient loss [[3]].
The report highlights deficiencies in care, noting that less than 75% of patients are properly evaluated for treatment eligibility, and only 78% of those eligible initiate therapy [[1]]. Patient retention is particularly low among those who do not begin treatment, especially in primary care settings [[2]]. Follow-up care for women diagnosed during prenatal care is also insufficient [[3]].
The authors suggest that the 2024 WHO guidelines, wich expand treatment eligibility, are a positive step, but are insufficient without guaranteed access to services [[1]]. They recommend a decentralized approach integrating Hepatitis B care into existing primary care and HIV programs [[2]].
Key recommendations include eliminating financial barriers to testing and treatment, enabling same-day treatment initiation, and applying retention methods used in HIV programs [[3]].
