A Program to Treat Hepatitis B in North Korea: A Model of Antiviral Therapy in a Resource-Poor Setting

Gut and Liver
Alice Unah LeeDavid C Hilmers

Abstract

Despite the well-proven, safe and effective therapies for hepatitis B infection, delivery of treatment remains a significant challenge in resource-poor settings. Geopolitical and economic restrictions present additional difficulties in providing care in North Korea. However, treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis B remains a top priority for both the North Korean Ministry of Public Health and international agencies working in North Korean hepatitis healthcare facilities. Working in partnership, a path was created to institute this much-needed program. A consortium of United States and Australian humanitarian non-governmental organizations along with generous individual and corporate donors working in concert with local and national health authorities have succeeded in establishing the first hepatitis B treatment program in North Korea. The essential elements of this program include renovation of existing hepatitis hospitals, access to antiviral medications, establishment of laboratory facilities, creation of medical documentation and record-keeping, training of local health care professionals, and quarterly visits by international volunteer physicians and laboratory experts. Management and treatment decisions are made bil...Continue Reading

References

Jun 15, 2013·Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health = Yebang Ŭihakhoe Chi·Yo Han LeeIn-Hwan Oh
Nov 6, 2015·Journal of Korean Medical Science·Markus Unnewehr, August Stich

❮ Previous
Next ❯

Citations


❮ Previous
Next ❯

Methods Mentioned

BETA
blood drawn

Software Mentioned

HOPE
Word
Access

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Antivirals

Antivirals are medications that are used specifically for treating viral infections. Discover the latest research on antivirals here.

Antivirals (ASM)

Antivirals are medications that are used specifically for treating viral infections. Discover the latest research on antivirals here.