Hepatitis C (HCV) is the most common chronic bloodborne viral infection in the
United States. HCV causes inflammation of the liver, and in the United States
8,000-10,000 people annually die of complications caused by the disease. Nearly
4 million Americans or 1.8% of the population are infected with HCV, but about
80% have no symptoms. Many people may not realize that they are infected.
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The virus is primarily transmitted when an
individual’s blood comes in contact with the blood of an infected person. Drugs
can suppress or, in many cases, eliminate HCV. But in the long run, possibly 20
years or more, patients are likely to develop liver disease and require a liver
transplant. Symptoms of the virus include fatigue, mild discomfort or tenderness
in the right upper quadrant, nausea and poor appetite.
How serious is
hepatitis C?
Hepatitis C is serious for some people, but not for others. Most
people who get HCV carry the virus for the rest of their lives. Most of these
people have some liver damage, but many do not feel sick from the disease. Some
people with liver damage due to HCV may develop cirrhosis (scarring) of the
liver and liver failure which may take years to develop. Others have no
long-term effects.
Is there treatment
for hepatitis C?
Approximately 50% of all patients who are treated with medicine
get rid of the virus.
The Gastroenterology Department provides
treatment for people with HCV and is currently conducting hepatitis C studies.
For more information about hepatitis C, contact
the Gastroenterology Department at (859) 258- 4950.
Take the
Risk Quiz to See if You’re at
Risk for Hepatitis B or C
Answer each question yes or no.
WORK HISTORY
Does your work ever but you in contact with blood, blood products, or
needles?
Examples include:
