May marks Hepatitis Awareness Month at a time when North Carolina is experiencing rising rates of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission, fueled by injection drug use. Today more than 150,000 residents of our state are living with HCV. The impact of HCV can be significant if not treated, including liver disease and death. HCV is particularly acute in southern and Appalachian states, where rates of injection drug use have led to more than a threefold increase in HCV transmissions.
North Carolina has made significant strides to combat HCV, including legalizing syringe service programs in 2016, in order to support the health of people who use drugs. These programs offer sterile injection equipment and collect used syringes. Syringe service programs, sometimes known as drug-user health hubs, also often provide other services, including HIV and hepatitis testing, peer support and wound care.
Free Hepatitis C Testing Open To El Paso Residents In May
It’s Hepatitis Awareness Month, and El Pasoans can receive a free Hepatitis C test courtesy of the Department of Public Health HIV Prevention Program.
Wondering if you may be infected with Hepatitis C? Don t delay getting tested - Hepatitis C is a deadly virus responsible for two of every three liver cancer deaths.
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the disease can be chronic or acute, affecting more than 300 million people worldwide. Hepatitis viruses are the most common cause of hepatitis infection, but alcohol, drugs, and autoimmune diseases can also cause Hepatitis C.
Thursday May 6, 2021, 5:04 AM
Hepatitis is an inflammatory condition of the liver which can lead to health problems if left undiagnosed and untreated. Credit: PA Images
Islanders are being encouraged to get a free Hepatitis test in Jersey.
The government s using Hepatitis Awareness Month to shine a light on the condition and try to remove some of the stigma around it.
It is an inflammatory condition of the liver, commonly caused by a viral infection, which can lead to health problems if left undiagnosed and untreated.
It is often referred to as the silent killer , as people may experience no obvious symptoms until the infection has caused serious complications which could potentially become fatal.