Hepatitis - National Action Plan 2023-2028

The experience acquired from the first National Action Plan to combat hepatitis in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (PANHEL) during the period 2018 to 2022 has been drawn on to produce the new national programme to combat viral hepatitis (PNHEP 2023-2028), by identifying the outstanding elements, the current challenges and the opportunities for improvement.

Key facts and figures

Viral hepatitis is still a major issue in the WHO European Region, where approximately 14 million people are infected with hepatitis B (HBV) and 12 million with hepatitis C (HCV). Each year, these infections cause approximately 56,000 deaths linked to HBV and 112,500 deaths linked to HCV. In 2019 alone, 19,000 new chronic cases of hepatitis B and 300,000 of hepatitis C were identified. And what's more, although less well documented, hepatitis D (HDV) significantly aggravates hepatic lesions in patients already infected with HBV.

Faced with this challenge, the WHO has set itself the target of eliminating viral hepatitis B and C as public health problems by 2030. The WHO recommends stepping up interventions targeted in particular at the most vulnerable groups, such as users of injectable drugs, sex workers, prisoners and migrants. In Luxembourg, the programme is adopting a multisector approach aimed at eliminating the transmission of viral hepatitis and guaranteeing each patient fair access to effective care and treatment.

The PNHEP 2023-2028 shares the objective of eliminating hepatitis C and aims to ensure long-term control of hepatitis B nationally by 2030. In addition, it seeks to guarantee all people affected by viral hepatitis access to effective and affordable care and treatments.

Four strategic priorities for achieving specific objectives

Priority 1 - Epidemiological watch

Improve knowledge of modes and profiles of transmission of viral hepatitis in Luxembourg. Identify high-risk groups and factors of infection so that preventive measures can be adapted. The aim is also to improve the quality of the data collected to facilitate epidemiological investigations and reinforce preventive intervention.

Priority 2 - Primary prevention

Organise awareness-raising campaigns targeted in particular at high-risk groups to inform them about prevention and reduce stigmatisation. Train staff from specialist centres and drug users, while setting up a peer network to facilitate access to treatment. Also raise awareness amongst young people of sexually transmitted infections and emotional health.

Priority 3 - Promote screening and early diagnosis

Raise awareness and facilitate access to early screening for viral hepatitis by adopting individualised strategies. Ensure rapid and appropriate care for people who have been diagnosed. Target vulnerable groups in particular for micro-elimination of the hepatitis C virus within these groups to reduce health disparities.

Priority 4 - Improve access to care

Simplify and decentralise screening and treatment, with the emphasis on accessible care adapted to the specific needs of the different target groups.