By Stephen Beech

The fastest ever test for hepatitis C - taking just 15 minutes - could save millions of lives, according to new research.

It provides results up to 75% faster than current rapid tests and paves the way for same-day treatment, say scientists.

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection affects an estimated 50 million people worldwide, causing more than 240,000 deaths each year mostly due to cirrhosis and liver cancer.

But scientists say that same-day results will help kickstart treatment for the infection, which is curable with medication, and could save millions of lives.

The highly accurate test , developed by researchers at Northwestern University in Illinois, delivers results to patients in just 15 minutes.

They say speed is "crucial" for kickstarting patients

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