get tested - get cured
If you were born between 1945 and 1965, you should get tested for Hep C. Baby boomers are five times more likely to have Hep C, according to the CDC.
Hep C is a liver disease caused by a viral infection. If left untreated, it can cause liver damage, liver cancer, or death.
Why are seniors at higher risk?
It's likely a combination of several factors. For instance, it wasn’t standard for donated blood and organs to be screened for Hep C until as recently as 1992. Additionally, medical equipment wasn’t sterilized as completely before the 1980’s. Another factor was the rise of recreational drug use from the 1960s through the 1980s.
What are the symptoms to look for?
Hep C progresses slowly and often has no symptoms. Up to 75% of people living with Hep C don't even know they have it. That is why it is important to get tested at least once in your life.
Is it curable?
Thankfully, Hep C is curable. As a Hepatitis C Center of Excellence, Trillium Health is expertly staffed to treat infected patients – including board-certified infectious disease physicians, pharmacists, and coordinators who can get you from diagnosis to cure. 93% of our patients achieve a sustained virologic response (SVR) – effectively curing them of the disease.
How do I get tested for Hep C?
Hep C testing is a two-step process. Your health care provider may run both tests in one blood draw. Step one is an antibody test and step two is an RNA test.
Early detection is key to preventing the spread of Hep C and improving health outcomes! Adhering to medications is essential to be cured of the virus.
Get tested for Hep C at Trillium Health! Visit our Hepatitis C Center of Excellence to learn more, or give us a call us at 585.454.HEPC (4372) to make an appointment.