A pilot survey of stigma related to infection with hepatitis B and C
This pilot study, led by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and the World Hepatitis Alliance, tested a new survey tool in nine European countries to explore stigma and discrimination faced by people living with hepatitis B and C. More than 600 people took part. Findings included:
Almost half said it was difficult to tell others about their diagnosis
People with hepatitis C were more likely than those with hepatitis B to report poor self-esteem and difficulties disclosing to family, friends or sexual partners
Concerns about transmitting hepatitis were common, especially among people with hepatitis C
Respondents with hepatitis C reported higher levels of discrimination, exclusion, threats, or negative remarks from family, friends and sexual partners
In healthcare, one in four people with hepatitis B and one in three with hepatitis C worried about being treated differently by staff
Some avoided seeking care altogether because they expected discrimination
People with hepatitis C were more likely than those with hepatitis B to report being treated unfairly at work or denied opportunities
While the survey had limitations, it shows that stigma and discrimination remain widespread and harmful. Larger and more inclusive studies are urgently needed to guide future action.
Watch a video about the report below