When the BB's are tested, many will have had HCV for 30+ years. This usually equates to more severe disease, so we will end up with a bunch of F3 and F4's who have reduced chance of SVR. It still amazes me that, of the patients who have tested +ve here, more than 98% have not had any Rx. Admittedly, Rx options have been limited to SOC until the last 6 months.

Testing for BB's is already being suggested.

Mallcom:

In the US they think that about 3 million people are infected. 168 Incivek cost $18000 so, the pharmaceutical companies are getting really rich. But, I guess because they have spent so much money in research, they have to recoup the money. I think Victrellis is cheaper. I think pretty soon, at least here in America, CDC center for disease control will ask all baby boomers to get tested for HEP C.

I have just read an article relating to HCV Rx in Australia, as of Sept. 2012. Approx. 220,000 Australians have chronic HCV (1.1%). This compares to the US incidence of 1.8%. Only 1.7% of Australian patients have had Rx, or are being treated. I find this amazing. This may increase after December when Victrelis and Incivek are PBA approved. I cannot find any data about Rx percentages in the US or Europe.

These are only diagnosed cases. With the vast reservoir of untested patients, imagine the cost of Rx in the years to come. Already, HCV is responsible for 75% of all liver-related deaths worldwide.