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Promoting Proactive Management of Hepatitis C Through Early Detection, Linkage to Treatment, and Research

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Busan Metropolitan City, led by Mayor Chun Jae-soo, announced that although there is currently no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, the disease is highly curable when detected early and treated appropriately. The City therefore urges citizens to make full use of the National Health Screening Program and other available screening opportunities to undergo early testing and receive timely treatment.

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which is transmitted through contact with infected blood or bodily fluids. Because the disease often causes no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, many people remain unaware that they are infected. If left untreated, chronic infection may progress to chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, or liver cancer. However, direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy administered for 8 to 12 weeks can cure approximately 98–99% of patients, making early diagnosis and prompt treatment essential.

According to data from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's Infectious Disease Portal, the incidence of hepatitis C has generally declined nationwide and in Busan over the past five years. Nevertheless, Busan continues to record a relatively high incidence rate of 193.81 cases per 100,000 people—more than twice the national average of 95.69—and higher than that of other major metropolitan cities, underscoring the need to strengthen early screening and linkage to treatment.

Busan Metropolitan City plans to actively utilize the National Health Screening Program and the confirmatory testing cost support program to identify hepatitis C patients at an early stage and strengthen public awareness efforts so that patients can be promptly connected to appropriate medical institutions and complete treatment.

Since 2025, hepatitis C antibody testing has been included in the National Health Screening Program for individuals aged 56. Beginning in 2026, medical institutions eligible for the confirmatory testing cost support program have been expanded from clinics and hospitals to all medical institutions, including advanced general hospitals and general hospitals. Individuals who receive a positive antibody test result are eligible for financial support covering out-of-pocket expenses for confirmatory diagnostic tests, including consultation and examination costs.

In addition, since May 1, 2026, follow-up epidemiological investigations for hepatitis C have been conducted through the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency's Integrated Disease Control Information System. Through this initiative, the City continuously monitors reported cases by identifying infection routes and treatment status. In particular, efforts are being intensified to connect untreated patients with appropriate medical care in order to prevent community transmission and reduce severe illness and mortality.

The City is also conducting a research project this year entitled "Analysis of Hepatitis C Trends and Regional and Demographic Characteristics in Busan," reflecting the city's higher incidence rate compared with the national average.

The study aims to identify high-risk areas and vulnerable population groups in detail, and its findings will serve as foundational data for establishing Busan-specific hepatitis C prevention and management policies, as well as strengthening early screening and treatment linkage systems.

To prevent hepatitis C, it is important to determine infection status as early as possible and reduce risk factors associated with blood-borne transmission. Citizens are encouraged to participate actively in the National Health Screening Program and follow recommended preventive practices.

People should never share syringes and should receive tattoos, piercings, acupuncture, and similar procedures only at hygienically managed medical institutions or licensed service providers. Personal hygiene items such as razors, toothbrushes, and nail clippers should never be shared with others.

Individuals who have received blood transfusions in the past, have experienced possible exposure to blood, or have symptoms suggestive of hepatitis, such as fatigue or jaundice, should visit a medical institution for hepatitis C testing. If diagnosed, completing treatment promptly is essential to prevent progression to chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

Cho Kyu-yul, Director General of the Citizens' Health Bureau, stated, "Hepatitis C is an infectious disease that can be cured in most cases when detected early and treated appropriately. Anyone who receives a positive hepatitis C antibody test result through the National Health Screening Program or other early screening services should be sure to undergo confirmatory diagnostic testing and receive treatment. Busan Metropolitan City will continue to do its utmost to protect citizens' health by strengthening early screening and linkage to treatment."