Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, causing inflammation, liver damage, and potentially leading to serious conditions like cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. Unlike hepatitis B, it is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, and many people maybe unaware they are infected because it can be asymptomatic for years.

Risk Factors:

• Injection Drug Use
• Blood Transfusions
• Needlestick Injuries
• Unprotected Sex
• Mother to Child during childbirth.
• Tattoos and Piercings: If done with non-sterile equipment.
• Haemodialysis: People undergoing dialysis for kidney failure may have a higher risk of infection.

Symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)
• Dark urine
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss
• Muscle or joint pain
• Itchy skin

Prevention and Early Detection:

• Avoid Sharing Needles: Never share needles or personal items that may be contaminated with blood.
• Safe Blood Practices: Ensure blood transfusions and organ donations are screened for HCV.
• Safe Sex Practices: Use condoms to reduce the risk of sexual transmission.
• Regular Screenings: Screening for high-risk individuals and those with certain medical conditions.
• Screening Before Piercings/Tattoos: Ensure the use of sterile equipment.

Diagnosis and Staging:

• Blood Tests: Testing for HCV antibodies (anti-HCV) and HCV RNA to detect infection.
• HCV Genotype Test: Determines the strain of HCV, which helps guide treatment options.
• Liver Biopsy or Imaging: Used to assess the extent of liver damage or fibrosis (scarring) from chronic HCV infection.

Why Regular Screening Matters?

Regular screening, especially for high-risk individuals, can detect the virus early when it is most treatable. With modern antiviral treatments, HCV can be cured in most cases, reducing the risk of liver damage and improving long-term health outcomes.