Assessment of COVID-19 response on hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus prevention and treatment from nationwide survey in Japan

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Elimination of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) require continuous interventions. This study aimed to assess the response and impact of COVID-19 on Hepatitis prevention and treatment in Japan. This international joint research was conducted by three research groups of Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) in Japan with The Task Force for Global Health and in cooperation with Japan Society of Hepatology (JSH). Materials and Methods: We have conducted this cross-sectional study by questionnaire survey both in Japanese and English language on online Microsoft forms platform from 24 August to 03 October 2021. The questionnaire was designed to address the impact of COVID-19 on hepatitis treatment, testing, screening;mitigation strategies;response to COVID-19;and perceived benefits of COVID-19. Results: Total 196 medical doctors have participated from 35 prefectures among them 49.5% are in administrative positions. 55.6% of participants responded about no interruption while 11.7% reported supply chain disruptions during the survey period. 1-25% decrease in HBV screening, testing was reported by 38.8% and 43.9% participants, respectively. Decease of 1-25% in HCV screening, testing and were reported by 39.8% and 43.4% participants, respectively. However, no decline to initiate HBV and HCV treatment was reported by 53.6% and 45.4%, respectively. But extend of hospital visits was reported by 65.3%. The survey response illustrated the decrease in patients' imaging (65.8%), lab testing (68.4%), HCC screening (55.1%), gastrointestinal endoscopy (87.2%), and liver biopsy (43.4%). Patient anxiety and fear (67.4%), loss of staff to COVID-19 response (49.0%), and limited availability of staff (46.4%) are responded as challenges to resume services to pre-COVID-19 level. Conclusion: A greater decrease has been noticed in HBV and HCV testing, screening, and other associated liver diseases than treatment initiation in Japan. However, anxiety and fear of patients, lack of staff and facilities are major challenges to overcome such situation.