Hepatitis
Hepatitis, the disease, is most commonly caused by a viral infection, but can also be caused by toxins, certain drugs, some diseases, heavy alcohol use and bacterial infections. In common discourse, “Hepatitis” is often used to refer to a family of viral infections that affect the liver; the most common, although unrelated viruses, being Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C (Hep A, Hep B and Hep C).
Viral hepatitis is the most common cause of hepatitis worldwide. In the United States, Hepatitis C has become the most common since widespread vaccination of Hepatitis B in the mid-1980’s. Hep C:
Affects an estimated 3.2 million adults living in the United States
Of those, roughly 60-70% are unaware of their infection
Even without symptoms, Hep C infected persons remain a source of transmission
Infected individuals are at an elevated risk for developing chronic liver disease
How you get it
Hep C is typically acquired through intravenous drug use with tainted needles, but it can also be transmitted through sexual activity (particularly rough and/or anal sex), body modifications (tattoos, piercings) and shared personal items (razors). Essentially, any time there is potential for blood to be present (nicks, scratches, abrasions, cuts) there is a chance for transmission.
Prevention
Hep C is typically acquired through intravenous drug use with tainted needles, but it can also be transmitted through sexual activity (particularly rough and/or anal sex), body modifications (tattoos, piercings) and shared personal items (razors). Essentially, any time there is potential for blood to be present (nicks, scratches, abrasions, cuts) there is a chance for transmission.
Get Vaccinated
Hep C is typically acquired through intravenous drug use with tainted needles, but it can also be transmitted through sexual activity (particularly rough and/or anal sex), body modifications (tattoos, piercings) and shared personal items (razors). Essentially, any time there is potential for blood to be present (nicks, scratches, abrasions, cuts) there is a chance for transmission.
