Hepatitis C is the most common blood-borne pathogen in the United States. Because it is usually asymptomatic in its chronic state, the infection is often undiagnosed in those infected with it.

Hepatitis C damages the liver, and can cause inflammation, scarring, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer. So, by detecting the virus early, and treating it, these pathological conditions may be prevented.

It is estimated that 75% of those infected with Hepatitis C were born between 1945 and 1965. The United States Preventative Service Task Force, therefore, recommends a single Hepatitis C screening test for all those born between 1945 and 1965. Of course, for those with more specific risk factors for infection, screening should be performed more frequently.

If you were born between 1945 and 1965, be sure to ask your doctor for a Hepatitis C antibody test. It is a simple blood test, run from the very same sample of blood used to check your cholesterol.

Patients in our practice are checked for Hepatitis C screening status as part of a comprehensive battery of effective screening tests.

As always, I hope this helps.

Dr. Van Dam