Viral Hepatitis: Advances in Elimination Strategies, Therapeutic Regimens, and Challenges in Underserved Populations

Despite the availability of highly effective curative therapies for hepatitis C and preventive vaccines for hepatitis A and B, viral hepatitis continues to impose an enormous global burden, disproportionately affecting marginalised and underserved populations. This chapter reviews the virology, natural history, and immunopathogenesis of hepatitis B, C, D, and E, alongside the landmark advances in direct-acting antiviral therapy for HCV and evolving treatment paradigms for chronic HBV infection. It critically analyses barriers to diagnosis and treatment access, elimination strategies articulated by the World Health Organization, and the clinical challenges posed by hepatitis in the contexts of pregnancy, immunosuppression, and coinfection.