One in every 33 Baby Boomers (born from 1945 to 1965) is living with Hepatitis C, but only about a fourth know they are infected. Hepatitis C is a silent and hidden epidemic.
Any direct blood to blood contact can spread the Hepatitis C virus. Even a trace or invisible amount of blood can cause infection. You may not remember or be aware of an exposure.
Hepatitis C can cause liver cirrhosis, primary liver cancer, or liver failure without any noticable symptoms until damage to the liver is very advanced.
Hepatitis C is treatable and curable. And once the virus is gone, the liver can begin to heal itself.
There is a simple blood test to detect Hepatitis C antibodies in the blood, but the test is NOT offered as part of a routine physical exam or regular blood tests.
You must ask to be tested! Ask your healthcare provider for a simple Hepatitis C test. Find out whether you are part of the hidden epidemic of Hepatitis C. If you are, Hepatitis C can be treated and cured and support is available.
Visit our website's Resources section to find information about Hepatitis C, financial support options, and support groups in New York.
Have a good weekend.
Dara