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New Hepatitis C Cures Offer Near 100% Success
26 Jan
Summary
- Hepatitis C is a viral liver infection often asymptomatic for years.
- Transmission primarily occurs through blood-to-blood contact, not casual contact.
- Modern antiviral treatments cure nearly 100% of hepatitis C infections.
Hepatitis C is a viral infection targeting the liver, often persisting silently for a decade or more before complications arise. Globally, an estimated 50 million people live with this condition, many unaware of their infection. Early symptoms are typically mild and nonspecific, such as fatigue or nausea.
This infection is caused by the hepatitis C virus, transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. While past transmission routes included blood transfusions, current common sources involve the sharing of needles and syringes. The virus is not spread through casual contact like hugging or sharing food, despite lingering stigma.
Modern treatment for hepatitis C involves highly effective direct-acting antiviral medications. These oral drugs are typically taken once daily for eight to 26 weeks. When followed as directed, these treatments achieve a cure in nearly 100% of patients with virtually no side effects, marking a significant advancement over older injection-based therapies.
Prevention remains crucial, emphasizing avoidance of infected blood exposure and sterile practices for procedures. Widespread testing and successful treatment also serve as vital public health measures by reducing the virus's overall circulation. Experts recommend that every adult be tested at least once for hepatitis C antibodies.
