Hepatitis C Screening in Pregnancy: UK Launches Public Consultation
The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) has initiated a public consultation regarding the potential for antenatal screening for Hepatitis C virus (HCV). This review, a regular process for the UK NSC, aims to assess the latest evidence and determine if population-wide screening is warranted.
What is Hepatitis C and Why Screen During Pregnancy?
HCV is a blood-borne virus that primarily impacts the liver. While some individuals naturally clear the infection, many develop chronic infections requiring treatment. Left untreated, chronic HCV can lead to serious health complications, including cirrhosis, liver failure, and cancer. Importantly, HCV can be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy, representing the primary source of HCV infection in children within high-income countries.
The 2025 Evidence Map: A Current Assessment
The current consultation is based on a 2025 evidence map, which reviewed research published since the last comprehensive review in 2018. The map concluded that the volume and type of novel evidence are currently insufficient to justify a more in-depth evidence summary. However, the UK NSC recognizes the evolving landscape of HCV treatment, particularly the development of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies.
Emerging Treatments and the Need for Further Research
Recent studies suggest that DAAs may be effective in treating HCV in both pregnant women and children. The 2025 evidence map identified nine guidelines or recommendations on antenatal screening for HCV, one systematic review and one single-arm trial on the effectiveness of DAA treatment during pregnancy, and one systematic review, one cohort study and two single-arm trials on the effectiveness of DAA treatment in children with vertically acquired HCV. However, these studies are limited by small sample sizes and a lack of comparative study designs.
To address this, the UK NSC plans to commission a further evidence map specifically focused on identifying whether certain groups of pregnant women are at higher risk of transmitting HCV to their babies. This targeted approach could inform future research and potentially refine screening strategies.
How to Contribute to the Consultation
Individuals and organizations are invited to provide feedback on the findings of the 2025 evidence map. Consultation documents can be downloaded from the UK NSC’s Hepatitis C (pregnancy) recommendation page. Responses should be submitted via the online form by 11.59pm BST on Wednesday 3 June 2026.
Future Trends and the Path to Elimination
The UK’s consideration of antenatal HCV screening aligns with global efforts towards HCV elimination. While routine population-based screening isn’t currently recommended (as of July 2025), ongoing research and the development of more effective treatments are continually reshaping the landscape. The focus on identifying high-risk groups represents a pragmatic step towards targeted screening and prevention strategies.
Did you know? HCV is a curable infection, and early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of long-term health complications.
FAQ
- What is the deadline for submitting feedback? The deadline is 11.59pm BST on Wednesday 3 June 2026.
- Where can I find the consultation documents? They are available on the UK NSC’s Hepatitis C (pregnancy) recommendation page.
- Is antenatal HCV screening currently recommended in the UK? No, routine population-based screening is not currently recommended.
Stay informed about the UK NSC’s operate and future consultations by visiting the UK National Screening Committee website.
Have your say – contribute to the consultation and help shape the future of antenatal HCV screening in the UK.
