Hepatitis C, otherwise known as Hep C, is a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). According to the most recent estimates from the World Health Organization, around 50 million people worldwide have hepatitis C, with nearly 1 million new infections per year.
It’s clear that this virus is still prevalent, which makes understanding who has a high hepatitis C risk crucial. Although it’s important for everyone to be aware of the risks of hepatitis C – there are certain groups of people who are more susceptible to the virus.
This post will focus on these high hepatitis C risk groups. We’ll explore why they are more susceptible, as well as the importance of testing, early diagnosis, and ongoing treatment.
What is the Hepatitis C Virus?
As mentioned, Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. The virus is spread through blood-to-blood contact, making certain behaviors, such as sharing needles, higher risk for transmission. Before 1996, there was also a risk of contracting hepatitis C through blood transfusions.
While it can lead to serious liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer, early diagnosis and treatment significantly reduce these risks. With advances in antiviral medications, many people with hepatitis C can achieve a sustained virologic response (SVR), meaning the virus is no longer detectable in their blood—and essentially cured.
Why is Awareness Important?
Combating and preventing hepatitis C starts with awareness. Many people with hepatitis C do not show symptoms. In fact, some may not even know they are infected.
The silent nature of the virus makes it crucial for everyone, especially high hepatitis C risk groups, to get tested. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health problems. In turn, this leads to a much better quality of life.
Chronic HCV infection, if left untreated, can lead to serious liver damage, long-term health problems, and even death. Therefore, early detection and treatment are essential to prevent these complications.
High-Risk Groups
Certain groups are at a higher hepatitis C risk, including baby boomers, individuals living with HIV, injection drug users, and healthcare workers. Let’s take a closer look at each:
Baby Boomers
Baby boomers, or people born between 1945 and 1965, are at a higher risk for hepatitis C. This is because blood transfusions were far less safe during the 1960s to 1980s. Since the hepatitis C virus wasn’t identified until 1989, blood donations weren’t screened for HCV.
As a result, baby boomers were more likely to contract the virus through medical procedures or transfusions. Thus, baby boomers are among the demographics most affected by chronic hepatitis C infection.
It’s crucial for all baby boomers to get tested for hepatitis C, as some may not even realize they carry the virus. If you fall within this age group, talk to your doctor about getting tested—it’s an easy step that can make a big difference.
Individuals Living with HIV
Individuals living with HIV have a higher hepatitis C risk because both viruses can be transmitted through blood. This similarity in transmission methods makes co-infection common, particularly among those who engage in high-risk behaviors.
The high prevalence of HCV among people living with HIV infection further complicates treatment and management.
Shared Risk Factors
- Injection Drug Use: Sharing needles significantly increases the risk of both HIV and hepatitis C.
- Unprotected Sex: While less common, hepatitis C can be transmitted through sexual contact, particularly among those with HIV.
Complications of Co-infection with Chronic Hepatitis C Infection
Having both HIV and hepatitis C can lead to more severe health issues. Hepatitis C can progress faster in individuals with HIV. That being said, it is highly recommended that individuals with HIV also get tested for Hep C. Treatment is crucial to prevent long-term liver damage in individuals with chronic hepatitis C infection.
People Who Use Injection Drugs
Injection drug use is a significant risk factor for contracting Hepatitis C. The practice of sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia facilitates the transmission of the virus.
Moreover, the virus can live on surfaces for up to three weeks, making it that much easier to spread. New HCV infections are most common among people who inject drugs, with recent increases predominantly among young adults.
Harm reduction strategies, such as needle exchange programs and safe injection sites, are crucial in reducing the spread of hepatitis C. As a matter of fact, these preventative initiatives may have been responsible for a decrease in Hep C in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Healthcare Workers
Healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and laboratory technicians, are at an increased risk of hepatitis C due to potential exposure to blood and bodily fluids. Accidental needle sticks and sharps injuries are common occupational hazards that can lead to transmission if proper precautions are not taken.
Fortunately, there are standard precautions that healthcare workers follow to reduce the risk of hepatitis C infection. These include wearing protective gear (gloves, masks, gowns) and using safety-engineered sharps devices.
When a healthcare worker is exposed to blood or bodily fluids, immediate action is necessary. Post-exposure protocols include:
- Reporting the incident.
- Getting a medical evaluation.
- Undergoing baseline and follow-up testing for hepatitis C.
If you are a healthcare worker, it’s vital to be regularly tested for Hep C (even with the precautions in place). Sometimes accidents happen, and staying on top of your health is a priority.
Testing Recommendations and Treatment
If you fall within the above categories, it is recommended that you get tested for hepatitis C. Regular testing may be beneficial for those with HIV or those who use injectable drugs. To detect hepatitis C, all that is needed is a simple blood test. It’s quick and can be done at your doctor’s office or a local clinic.
Early detection through testing can lead to timely treatment, significantly reducing the risk of severe liver damage and other complications.
Treatment for hepatitis C has advanced significantly in recent years, with highly effective antiviral medications now available. These treatments can cure the infection in most cases, often within 8 to 12 weeks.
Have a High Hepatitis C Risk? Get Tested Today
Understanding who is at a high risk for hepatitis C and why is crucial. Testing, early diagnosis, and treatment can prevent serious health complications and potentially save lives.
If you or someone you know falls into one of the high-risk groups, encourage them to get tested and seek medical advice. Public awareness efforts and prevention strategies for viral hepatitis are essential to combat the spread and impact of hepatitis C infections.
At Connect to Cure, it’s our mission to help people get the treatment they need for Hep C. That’s why we offer free and confidential testing services, as well as a team of experts to be by your side through the process.
Want to learn more? Contact us and get started on your path to better health.