Real-World Evidence and Hepatitis C

Abstract

Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) are the treatment of choice for patients with chronic hepatitis C. Their efficacy across diverse patient populations and safety among those with all stages of liver disease, including cirrhosis, have been repeatedly demonstrated in studies encompassing all classes of DAAs. Real-world evidence has confirmed that DAA therapies used in usual clinical practice achieved similar rates of sustained virological response when compared to those reported in rigorously controlled clinical trials. These data, developed from large cohort studies performed around the world, have instilled greater confidence in the management of patients with chronic hepatitis C using DAAs. Furthermore, real-world evidence contributed to better understanding the strengths and limitations of DAA treatment among unique populations of patients with chronic hepatitis C who were underrepresented in the original registration trials of these agents.