Earlier this month, Malaysia’s Drug Control Authority granted conditional registration of a new drug to treat hepatitis C. This move was hailed by many as another step towards eliminating hepatitis C, making treatment both more affordable and accessible in low- and middle-income countries like Malaysia. Why was this hailed as a new milestone and how long will it take before we achieve a hepatitis-free world? We find out from Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan, National Head of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, and Jean-Michel Piedagnel, Director, Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) Southeast Asia.

Image source: Shutterstock 

Produced by: Lim Sue Ann

Presented by: Tee Shiao Eek

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Tags:  The Bigger Picture,  Health & Living,  hepatitis C,  HCV,  Ravidasvir,  Sofosbuvir,  disease elimination,  Drugs For Neglected Disease Initiative,  DNDi,  antivirals,  direct-acting antivirals,  Healthcare, Pharma, Biotech,  Other personality interviews,  Health,  Health Policy,  Diseases & Conditions,  Mental Health,  Healthy Living,  Fitness,  Medical Innovation and Technology,  Science