Hepatitis Treatment
ERC provides specialty care for people with chronic hepatitis C, a growing and costly epidemic. The federal government estimates that 4 million Americans live with chronic hepatitis C. Half of them do not even realize they are infected. Most show no symptoms.
What is Hepatitis C?
The hepatitis C virus, which can often be cured when treated with antiviral medications, is the leading cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer and is the most common reason for liver transplantation. Untreated, the infection can lead to lifelong liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, and death.
Should You be Tested for Hepatitis C?
You should be tested if you meet one or more of the following conditions:
- You were born between 1945 and 1965
- You currently use or previously used intravenous drugs
- You had a blood transfusion before 1992
- You have tattoos or piercings that were done with non-sterile equipment
- Your mother had hepatitis C
- You currently use or previously used intranasal drugs