Hepatitis C has been in the news recently due the many commercials and news stories recommending testing for this disease.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes the only chronic viral disease that is consistently curable with medication. Many patients infected with HCV may be symptom-free and unaware of their condition for years. As a result, despite effective treatments, the number of newly-diagnosed HCV cases is increasing in the United States. At particular risk are Baby Boomers born between 1945 and 1965, who have a 1 out of 30 chance of being infected. Of those who test positive for HCV, 80% will develop chronic infection (and therefore may be contagious) and 10-20% will develop potentially fatal cirrhosis of the liver.
While in the past HCV treatments were often ineffective and fraught with side effects, twelve weeks of treatment with new antiviral tablets can achieve a cure in 90% or more of HCV cases, and may reverse liver damage and even cirrhosis, without producing side effects.
If you were born between 1945 and 1965, contact your medical professional to arrange testing, and, if needed, treatment.