Executive Summary
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a silent killer. Its relentless liver damage leads to debilitating illness and death. With 71 million cases globally and half a million deaths every year, HCV is a serious public health threat. But hope is emerging from a new class of medicines that can cure HCV. These therapies offer an unprecedented opportunity for eliminating the virus in an entire population.
Rwanda, disproportionately affected by the virus, is particularly suited for such an initiative. Supported by the country’s political leaders, a novel partnership between ICAP at Columbia University and Rwanda’s Ministry of Health will establish the nation as the first to eliminate HCV entirely, proving that it can be done and inspiring others to follow. The effort includes mobilizing communities nationwide, training health and community workers and establishing laboratory infrastructure. The initiative also will provide treatment to all persons with HCV and track progress toward elimination.
Lead Organization
Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York
website: https://icap.columbia.edu/Charity, fund, non-governmental organization, religious institution, school, or other entity
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Accomplishments
The COVID-19 pandemic has motivated ICAP as a leader in global health, with a special focus on infectious diseases, to expand its portfolio to include a substantial amount of COVID-related work. That work includes support for clinical research efforts in the New York City area and support for public health interventions in more than 30 countries where ICAP currently works, including Rwanda. While the proposed project is on pause until funding is secured, ICAP is leveraging its technical experts and operational platform to support a rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including in Rwanda.
