Friday, March 3, 2017

March HCV Newsletters - Resurgence In HCV, Liver Cancer And What's really in those fish oil capsules?


Hello March, spring is on its way, I hope! Welcome to this issue of Newsletters with updates from around the Web.

In The News
March 3
Merck Loses Big Money on HCV Drug
Merck & Co., Inc. recently announced that it will write-down the value of uprifosbuvir, the experimental drug, after the company reevaluates opportunities and prices in the market for hepatitis C (HCV) medications..

Researchers Have "New Attitude" About Liver Cancer, Expert Says
While the liver cancer landscape is not as explosive with novel agents as some other solid tumor types, systemic and surgical advancements are still having an impact on the lives of patients.

March 2
Taking stock: Where does Europe stand in the elimination of hepatitis B and C?
In 2016, a regional action plan for Europe contributing to the implementation of the global viral hepatitis elimination strategy was developed by the WHO Regional Office for Europe. In an article published today in Eurosurveillance, the authors take a closer look how Europe is doing according to the ten indicators and targets outlined in this plan. In short: Europe still has some way to go if it wants to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030.

Key interventions proposed to aid in the elimination of viral hepatitis
Top European government agencies called for key interventions to heighten focus on treating currently infected individuals and reach the goal of hepatitis elimination in Europe in a review of current hepatitis levels and the WHO’s “Global Health Sector Strategy on Viral Hepatitis 2016-2021.”

With the opioid crisis, a new epidemic emerges
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Hepatitis C: it’s the liver disease some doctors thought might one day be eradicated, but now there’s a resurgence across the country and here in Commonwealth.

Weekly Bull
HepCBC is a non-profit organization run by and for people infected and affected by hepatitis C. Our mission is to provide education, prevention and support to those living with HCV.

Weekly Newsletter
Latest Issue: Weekly Bull
Ontario: A Notice from the Executive Officer and FAQs for HCP’s and Patients have now been published on the Ontario Ministry of Health site; here is the link: http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/drugs/opdp_eo/eo_communiq.aspx

Read all March updates, here...

Save The Date
Monday, March 6, 2017, 4 pm Eastern
Please join the Atlanta Harm Reduction Coalition, the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable, the People's Harm Reduction Alliance, and the Urban Survivor’s Union for a conference call to talk about how to address barriers to hepatitis C care faced by individuals who use drugs. We will give a brief overview of our collaborative project to address some of these barriers, and then we invite you to join us in an open discussion about what people are experiencing in the community. The goal of this call is for us to gather different perspectives and identify ways that service providers and advocates can work together nationally to improve access to hepatitis C care for people who use drugs.
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Journal Updates
Liver Cancer
Mortality assessment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma according to underlying disease and treatment modalities
Golabi, Pegah; Fazel, Sofie; Otgonsuren, Munkhzul;           
Medicine . 96(9):e5904, March 2017.
An interesting finding of our study was the proportions of types of liver disease and their associations with mortality among HCC patients. In our study, among the group with HCC, the prevalence of HCV, HBV, alcoholic liver disease, and nonviral nonalcoholic/cryptogenic liver disease was 52%, 9%, 21%, and 19%, respectively. In the United States, most patients with nonviral nonalcoholic/cryptogenic liver disease are represented by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). These data suggesting HCV as the most common cause of HCC followed by alcoholic liver disease and NAFLD is consistent with previous reports

On-target sorafenib toxicity predicts improved survival in hepatocellular carcinoma: a multi-centre, prospective study
Version of Record online: 2 MAR 2017 | DOI: 10.1111/apt.13977
Article
PDF(398K)
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Healthy You
What's really in those capsules?
A U.S. study, which replicates findings in New Zealand and Australia, has shocking news about what's really in that fish oil capsule a lot of you swallow every day. And it’s far from what you think you’re paying for.
Listen here........

Erin Digitale on March 2, 2017
Marijuana use isn’t safe for teenagers, and pediatricians need to be ready to explain why, according to a new clinical report published this week by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Stanford adolescent medicine specialist Seth Ammerman, MD, co-authored the report to help doctors navigate conversations with patients and parents who may increasingly view marijuana as...
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HCV Education
Clinical Care Options
In this module, Jordan J. Feld, MD, MPH, and Hemant Shah, MD, MScCH HPTE, review optimal strategies for managing patients with hepatitis C virus infection.            
Released: 3/2/2017
*Free registration is required to view updates

Clinical Resources From inPractice Hepatology- Preview
Types of Therapy
Combination therapy is necessary to optimize HCV treatment response rates. Currently recommended treatment options include combination therapies that are based on genotype. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved simeprevir and sofosbuvir in November and December 2013, respectively, ledipasvir/sofosbuvir in October 2014, ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir plus dasabuvir in December 2014, daclatasvir in July 2015, elbasvir/grazoprevir in January 2016, and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir in June 2016 for treatment of HCV. Sofosbuvir, simeprevir, and daclatasvir are approved for use in combination with other antivirals, whereas ledipasvir/sofosbuvir is approved as a fixed-dose combination for patients with genotype 1, 4, 5, or 6 HCV infection, ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir plus dasabuvir is approved as a stand-alone fixed-dose combination regimen for patients with genotype 1 HCV infection, elbasvir/grazoprevir is approved as a fixed-dose combination for patients with genotype 1 or 4 HCV infection, and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir is approved as a fixed-dose combination for patients infected with any HCV genotype. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has approved the drugs sofosbuvir, simeprevir, and daclatasvir for the treatment of hepatitis C, each to be used in combination with other antivirals, as well as ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir plus dasabuvir, elbasvir/grazoprevir, and sofosbuvir/velpatasvir either as stand-alone fixed-dose combination regimens or in combination with ribavirin, depending on genotype, presence of cirrhosis, and/or treatment experience.

It is anticipated that additional agents will be approved in the near future. Access to these new agents will likely vary due to different approval timelines as well as variability in cost and reimbursement in different regions of the world
Begin here....
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Review on the latest evidence and practice in hepatitis C management
Marion G. Peters, MD John V. Carbone, Endowed Chair Professor of Medicine University of California San Francisco San Francisco, California
Download PDF - Slide presentation
February 24, 2017

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In Case You Missed It
Drs. Drenth and Berden discuss their manuscript "Identification of the Best Direct-Acting Antiviral Regimen for Patients With Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 3 Infection: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis."

On This Blog
2017-HCV Genotypes/Treatment
Offered on this page is research updates with a focus on treating HCV according to genotype using FDA approved and investigational medicines. Information is extracted from news articles, peer-reviewed journals, as well as liver meetings/conferences, research manuscripts and interactive learning activities. 

FDA Label Update
TECHNIVIE (fixed-dose combination of ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir) label was updated to expand the indication

The Missing Link in Eliminating Viral Hepatitis B & C
The development three decades ago of the first anti-cancer vaccine capable of preventing liver cancer was considered a “medical miracle," giving new hope to preventing the tragic consequences of hepatitis B (HBV) infections. However, the challenge the medical community faced was, and continues to be, implementing nationwide initiatives to provide this remarkable preventive vaccine to all vulnerable populations in the United States.

In conclusion, hundreds of thousands of patients are currently being treated with DAAs, and, based on our real-life data, 30–44% of those taking comedications are at risk of a drug-drug interactions (DDI.)  For several drugs, the recommendation related to a potential DDI depends on the severity of liver disease, and a careful evaluation of DDIs is required, particularly in patients with severe liver impairment. This stresses the need for increased awareness of this issue and for additional extensive research.

Clinical Liver Disease
Overview of causality assessment in drug‐induced liver injury
Full Text (HTML)
Watch a video presentation of this article
Watch the interview with the author

A recent report questioning the safety of direct-acting antivirals in the treatment of hepatitis C garnered much attention due to its coverage in the New York Times; enough attention that our patients who have read the Times article have begun to question these treatments, including even some who have already been cured and are needlessly concerned about the potential for late-appearing side effects.

Thesenew drugs are providing the opportunity to effectively cure chronic HCV infection and reducethe burden caused by both the hepatic and extrahepatic complications of HCV, therebyoffering hope for a dramatic change in patient outcomes. The objective of this internationalmultidisciplinary consensus is to provide the first set of recommendations on a homogeneoustherapeutic approach to HCV infected patients with extrahepatic involvement in the new DAAera...

Thousands of British Columbians living with hepatitis C will have better access to treatment as a result of successful negotiations brokered by the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (pCPA).
“This agreement changes the landscape for hepatitis C patients living in B.C.,” said Health Minister Terry Lake. “Not only are there four new treatment options for what is now a curable virus, but the savings that were negotiated will allow us to cover treatment options for all hepatitis C patients – rather than just those in more advanced stages of the disease.”

March Newsletters

HCV Advocate
The HCV Advocate newsletter is a valuable resource designed to provide the hepatitis C community with monthly updates on events, clinical research, and education

March Newsletter

HealthWise – Why We Need to Treat Everyone Who Has Hepatitis C by Lucinda K. Porter, RN – Lucinda explores how to eliminate hepatitis C in this thought-provoking article.

Under The Umbrella—The Pros and Cons of Learning about Hepatitis C on the Internet by Matthew Zielske—Matthew writes about the pros and cons of educating ourselves and others about hepatitis C on the internet.

SnapShots by Alan Franciscus.In this month’s column I write about three studies—the new liver chemistry guidelines issued, potential liver injury from herbal and dietary supplements, and an analysis about the treatment using Zepatier in people with compensated cirrhosis.

The Drug Pipeline has been pretty quiet this month with the exception of the news that AbbVie’s two drug combination of glecaprevir plus pibrentasvir to treat all genotypes (pan-genotypic) had been granted a FDA priority review-meaning that the drug approval process will be speeded up.

What’s Up! – In this month notice we have updated the following fact sheets:
(Overview of Hepatitis C Transmission & Prevention)
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The New York City Hepatitis C Task Force
The New York City Hepatitis C Task Force is a city-wide network of service providers and advocates concerned with hepatitis C and related issues. The groups come together to learn, share information and resources, network, and identify hepatitis C related needs in the community. Committees form to work on projects in order to meet needs identified by the community.

Hep Free NYC Newsletter
All Newsletters - Archives

Video
The NYC Hep C Task Force Hep C Prevention in Youth Initiative, in partnership with Tackling Youth Substance Abuse, received a grant from Birds Nest Foundation to create a video highlighting how prescription medication misuse can lead to intranasal or injection drug use, which can lead to Hep C infection. Watch and share this important and compelling video.

In The News
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NVHR NEWSLETTER
The National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable is a broad coalition working to fight, and ultimately end, the hepatitis B and hepatitis C epidemics. We seek an aggressive response from policymakers, public health officials, medical and health care providers, the media, and the general public through our advocacy, education, and technical assistance.

March 2017 Newsletter

Topics
NVHR Welcomes Bekeela Davila
New York Hepatitis C Elimination Summit
Liver Meeting 2016 Highlights
Community Call Reminder
Mother-to-Child Hepatitis B Transmission Call to Action
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HCV Action
HCV Action brings together hepatitis C health professionals from across the patient pathway with the pharmaceutical industry and patient representatives to share expertise and good practice.

HCV Action e-update
02 Mar 2017
New report compares DAA uptake in UK and other European countries

NLGN Blog
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Pacific Hepatitis C Network (PHCN)
Welcome to the Pacific Hepatitis C Network (PHCN) newsletter. This is where we review all of the major current issues and events around hepatitis C and hep C treatments. It is an email that includes links to our recent blog posts—including links to blog posts about Public Health Agency of Canada funding.

Subscribe
Subscribers to our mailing list will receive a bi-weekly newsletter, via email, highlighting all of the blog posts written by PHCN and published for PHCN's Newsletter and Hep C TIP News. Current subscribers of either blog will begin receiving this one bi-weekly newsletter. Open them for information and links to blog posts that interest you.
Sign up here.

March Newsletter

Blog Updates
GI & Hepatology News
Over 17,000 gastroenterologists and hepatologists rely on GI & Hepatology News every month to cover the world of medicine with breaking news, on-site medical meeting coverage, and expert perspectives both in print and online. The official newspaper of the AGA Institute was launched in partnership with IMNG in January 2007.

Newsletter - March 2017 

Liver Disease

Review all newsletters - Past Issues
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British Liver Trust
The British Liver Trust is the leading UK liver disease charity for adults – we provide information and support; increase awareness of how liver disease can be prevented and promote early diagnosis; fund and champion research and campaign for better services.

View all Newsletters here.

Helpful Tools At British Liver Trust 
Reviewed by: Dr Marsha Morgan, Reader in Medicine & Honorary Consultant Physician, Centre for Hepatology,Royal Free, London; Dr Richard Aspinall, Consultant Hepatologist, Portsmouth Hospitals NHS Trust; Julie Leaper, Hepatology Specialist / ICU Dietitian,St James’s University Hospital, Leeds; Susie Hamlin, Hepatology Specialist / ICU Dietitian, St James’s University Hospital, Leeds; Simran Arora, Clinical Specialist Hepatology / Liver Transplant Dietitian, Royal Free Hospital Hampstead NHS Trust, London.
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American Liver Foundation
Liver Lowdown is the monthly general interest e-newsletter of the American Liver Foundation.

Because February 28th is Rare Disease Day, the American Liver Foundation proudly dedicates this Liver Lowdown issue to those affected by rare liver diseases. This important day shines a spotlight on the challenges and victories of those with any disease in the United States that affects fewer than 200,000 people. In fact, some impact only a handful. Whether you’re one of the few or part of many affected by a liver disease, ALF salutes you. Here are descriptions of noteworthy rare liver diseases. Click on any for in-depth descriptions, including information on symptoms, treatment and how they’re diagnosed.


Blog Updates From Around The Web
Read inspiring HCV articles recently published by a small list of wonderful bloggers. These bloggers update us with personal stories filled with easy to understand information about treating or living with viral hepatitis.


Hepatitis B Foundation
The Hepatitis B Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for hepatitis B and helping to improve the lives of those affected worldwide through research, education and patient advocacy. Our monthly electronic newsletter, provides research updates, healthy liver tips, information on public health initiatives, and other HBF news.
Click here to subscribe

Blog
No one is to blame for hepatitis B, including the millions who were infected at birth or from unsafe and contaminated syringes and medical devices.
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I Help C
Your Best Friends Guide To Hepatitis C and Cirrhosis
Karen Hoyt
This site is dedicated to helping those who have Hepatitis C or Cirrhosis. I'm not a doctor, but I'll be your Best Friend.

New Book
This compassionate author, HCV advocate, and survivor, once again is doing what she does best, keeping us informed and full of hope. Karen has recently announced her new book, "The Liver Loving Diet" is available to enjoy, a book that will help you learn to eat well during all phases of liver disease. For the cost of a few cups of liver friendly coffee - this book can be yours.

Purchase is now available through PayPal, click here to learn more.

Blog Update
Stand Up For Yourself
Sometimes I read emails just before going to bed – you know, when my mind is too tired to think. One came in a few weeks ago that I gave a really polite answer to...
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HEPATITISC.NET
At HepatitisC.net we empower patients and caregivers to take control of Hepatitis C by providing a platform to learn, educate, and connect with peers and healthcare professionals.

The Importance of Social Support living
By Matthew Zielske - March 2, 2017
Support Is Important We all need emotional support and encouragement at some point in our lives. Moments when we are diagnosed with a chronic illness or recovering from a traumatic or unexpected...

Spotlight: Nutrition and Health spotlight
By Editorial Team - March 1, 2017
This month, HepatitisC.net is focusing on nutrition and health. Many living with hepatitis C or undergoing treatment find nutrition can play a role in their health. For instance, following a low salt...

Family Sues Sheriff Over Death of HCV-Positive Inmate living
By Jenelle Marie Davis - February 28, 2017
What Happened? In late 2016, Sheriff Marlin Gusman, of Orleans Parish in New Orleans, Louisiana was sued by the family of Calvin Thomas (also known as Calvin Deal). Calvin was a 34...

Read other recent HepatitisC.net headlines
Get the latest news and updates, right in your inbox - register to receive our weekly newsletter
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Hep BOOMers
Hep BOOMers is dedicated to the millions of Baby Boomers who contracted hepatitis C and to the boom in medical research that could cure them.
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Creating a World Free of Hepatitis C
By Lucinda K. Porter
Welcome to my website and blog. My name is Lucinda Porter and I am a nurse committed to raising awareness about hepatitis C. I believe that we can create a world free of hepatitis C. We do this together, one step at a time.


Can You Trust Your Lab Test?
on February 23, 2017
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HEP - Blog Updates
Hep is an award-winning print and online brand for people living with and affected by viral hepatitis. Offering unparalleled editorial excellence since 2010, Hep and Hep Magazine are the go-to source for educational and social support for people living with hepatitis.

Ask HEP

Blog Updates
By Greg Jefferys
Hep C News from Croatia

By Lucinda K. Porter, RN

By Connie M. Welch
Hep C Patient Christine shares her hep C treatment Harvoni experience. Check out Christine’s part 1 and part 2 interview. Pull up a chair and grab your favorite cup of jo’ as we join Christine today.

Part 3 of Connie Welch's interview
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MD Whistleblower
Michael Kirsch, M.D.
I am a full time practicing physician and writer. I write about the joys and challenges of medical practice including controversies in the doctor-patient relationship, medical ethics and measuring medical quality. When I'm not writing, I'm performing colonoscopies.

Should Patients Order Their Own Lab Tests?
Knowledge is power. Increasingly, patients are demanding and receiving access to levers in the medical machine that would have been unthinkable a generation ago.
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The Hepatitis C Mentor and Support Group (HCMSG)
The Hepatitis C Mentor and Support Group (HCMSG) was founded to address the lack of awareness, support, and services for people living with Hepatitis C (including patients co-infected with other conditions such as HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B), and patients in need of or living with liver transplants. To address these needs, we provide resources and services to foster the development and operation of successful support groups for Hepatitis C and co-infected patients. These services are provided to prospective and current support group facilitators FREE OF CHARGE. In the future, we will also provide one-on-one mentoring services to Hepatitis C and liver transplant patients.

Visit - HCMSG Blog
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AGA Journals - Blog
Dr. Kristine Novak is the science editor for Gastroenterology and Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. She has worked as an editor at biomedical research journals and as a science writer for 15 years, covering advances in gastroenterology, hepatology, cancer, immunology, biotechnology, molecular genetics, and clinical trials. She has a PhD in cell biology and an interest in all areas of medical research.

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is more accurate than transient elastography (TE) in identifying liver fibrosis of stage 1 or more, researchers report in the February issue of Gastroenterology, using biopsy analysis as the standard. They also show that MRI-based proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) analysis is more accurate than TE-based..

Check back for weekend updates.

Until next time.....
Tina

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