Individuals born between 1945 and 1975 urged to get Hepatitis C test, experts say

The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Prevention of Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a liver disease caused by the HCV virus, affecting approximately 80 million people worldwide, which accounts for 1.1% of the population.
Italy stands out as the European country with the highest number of patients undergoing treatment for hepatitis C.
However, the diagnosis often comes late, leading to challenges in effective prevention.

In order to reach the World Health Organization’s goal of eradicating hepatitis C by 2030, there is a crucial need for massive screening campaigns.
Many hepatologists and scientific societies are advocating for diagnostic testing among individuals born between 1945 and 1975, who have not been previously tested.
Despite the existence of a cure for hepatitis C, one-third of cases are diagnosed too late, resulting in irreversible liver damage, emphasizing the significance of prevention.

Advancements in Diagnosis and Treatment

Spain initiated the idea of large-scale screening campaigns, which has now been endorsed by the WHO, encouraging global efforts to combat the disease by 2030.
With the integration of artificial intelligence and new diagnostic tools, obtaining an accurate diagnosis is more cost-effective than before, presenting a unique opportunity to make substantial progress in the fight against hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C: Understanding the Disease, Symptoms, and Treatment

Hepatitis C is an inflammatory liver disease caused by the HCV virus, which can remain dormant in the body for several years before symptoms appear.
Prevention and early diagnosis play a crucial role in managing the disease effectively.
The primary mode of transmission is through contact with infected blood, leading to the virus entering the body through the skin or mucous membranes.

Typical symptoms that may surface 1 to 3 months after infection include fever, fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark urine, light-colored stools, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, joint and muscle aches.
The acute phase lasts from 2 to 12 weeks, with a 50% chance of spontaneous recovery.
However, in some cases, the inflammation progresses chronically, manifesting symptoms such as weakness, digestive issues, abdominal swelling and pain, and mood disorders.

While some individuals with chronic hepatitis C may develop secondary organ diseases, possibly due to immune system reactions, recent advancements in antiviral medications have significantly improved the treatment landscape.
Early diagnosis remains pivotal in achieving a successful recovery from the disease, as no preventive measures or vaccines are currently available for hepatitis C.
The primary prevention strategy is to avoid contact with the blood of infected individuals.

For further information about hepatitis C and its impact, you can also read about the blood contamination scandal in the United Kingdom, where 1,700 individuals are living with hepatitis unknowingly.