Tuesday, November 12, 2013

HCV--silent killer

http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304200804579163523170170660

HCV (Hepatitis C Virus), often called the "silent killer," is a virus that causes Hepatitis C which affects the liver, and may lead to various liver diseases including cirrhosis.  HCV is often neglected because it does not have one of the highest rates of infection and mortality rate recorded in the United States.  However, considering that the risk groups, such as IDUs (injection drug users), are not included in national surveys, much higher rate of the disease is highly likely.
Especially, baby boomers are under risk, due to high experiment drug uses in the 1960s and 70s and low surveillance of blood supply used in transfusions.

Push for HCV testing for all baby boomers at doctor's visit may help to catch the "silent killer," and treat it before it leads to liver failure.

-Hwajin

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