The CUTTS HepC Project will generate critical evidence to improve hepatitis C prevention and care for people who inject drugs in low- and middle-income countries. It will also drive demand for two underused tools—low-dead space syringes (LDSS) and long-acting buprenorphine—helping shape markets and expand access. By simplifying testing and treatment pathways, the project aims to increase uptake of curative hepatitis C treatments.
Led by the Médecins du Monde Consortium, the project will be implemented in Georgia, Armenia, and Tanzania. Its core goal is to embed hepatitis C testing and treatment within harm reduction programs while piloting two innovative tools to reduce injecting-related risks.
This study will trial a simplified, same-day testing and treatment model using a shortened rapid test read-time and pooled RNA testing to monitor cure and reinfection. The goal: streamline care and reduce diagnostic and treatment delays.
Led in partnership with INPUD, this study will assess community preferences, uptake, and the impact of low dead space syringes distribution on reducing HIV and hepatitis C transmission.
In Tanzania, the study will evaluate feasibility, acceptability, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of long-acting buprenorphine to support future scale-up and pricing strategies.
2023–2027.
This project is open to PhD students.
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Médecins du Monde
International Network for People Who Use Drugs (INPUD)
University of Bristol