The Silent Killer

Hepatitis C is a major health concern in the United States, with a significant number of people not receiving the necessary treatment. According to a recent survey, out of the 1.7 million individuals diagnosed with hepatitis C between 2013 and 2022, only 34% could be considered "cured." The main reason for this low rate of successful treatment is the limited access to medication caused by high drug prices.

To make matters worse, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that approximately 40% of people with hepatitis C in the US are unaware of their infection. This lack of knowledge puts them at risk of severe damage to their bodies, as hepatitis C can silently wreak havoc on the liver without presenting noticeable symptoms for years.

Although a breakthrough medication for hepatitis C became available in the early 2000s, a significant portion of the US population has been unable to benefit from it. In a press conference announcing the survey results, Dr. Carolyn Wester, the director of the CDC's Division of Viral Hepatitis, expressed her concern over the alarmingly low cure rate of 34%, particularly among individuals aged 20 to 29.

Among the 1.7 million individuals diagnosed with hepatitis C, half had commercial health insurance coverage. An additional 23% were covered by other payers, including self-payment, 11% by Medicaid, 9% by an unspecified payer, and 8% by Medicare. Those who had insurance through "another payer" were more likely to fall into the category of "not cured." On the other hand, older individuals with commercial insurance plans had a higher likelihood of being successfully cured.

Dr. Wester highlighted that certain insurance plans impose restrictions on coverage for hepatitis C medication, or they require burdensome preauthorization procedures before treatment can begin. These limitations and barriers can significantly delay or prevent access to life-saving medications. She emphasized that overcoming these barriers is crucial, as it can be a matter of life and death for individuals with hepatitis C, and everyone affected by the disease deserves a chance to be cured.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. While alcohol and toxins can also lead to hepatitis, the viral form of the disease is the most common. Viral hepatitis is categorized into three subgroups: A, B, and C. Hepatitis A is the mildest form, and most people recover from it without treatment. Vaccines are available for both hepatitis A and B, but unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C, which is the most severe form of the illness.

Hepatitis C is often referred to as the "silent killer" because symptoms typically do not appear until the liver has suffered significant damage, which can take several years. Fatigue, abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, and dark urine are some of the symptoms that may manifest. However, it's important to note that the absence of symptoms does not mean that treatment can be postponed. The virus silently attacks the liver and increases the risk of developing future health complications.

The majority of individuals who contract hepatitis C develop a chronic form of the disease. It is one of the leading causes of liver transplants and liver cancer. However, the CDC emphasizes that if hepatitis C is detected early, it can be cured in over 95% of cases. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial to prevent the progression of the disease and its potentially fatal consequences.

Gay men are disproportionately affected by hepatitis C. For instance, they account for approximately 20% of all new hepatitis B cases. Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, and only a microscopic amount of infected blood is needed for transmission to occur. Poor infection control in healthcare settings has led to outbreaks, and sharing needles or syringes among drug users also poses a significant risk. Additionally, cases have been linked to tattooists and body piercers who do not properly sterilize their equipment.

Hepatitis experts also warn that individuals who share banknotes or straws to snort cocaine should consider getting tested. The nasal cavities contain numerous blood capillaries, and even a small amount of blood on a straw can spread the hepatitis C virus.

Previously, it was believed that hepatitis C was not sexually transmitted. However, it is now recognized that there is a possibility of transmission through sexual activities, especially if there is a risk of bleeding. Although the number of cases involving sexual transmission is relatively low, individuals who engage in activities such as fisting, rough sex, sharing sex toys, or participating in group sex are at a higher risk of contracting hepatitis C.

Physicians may not inquire about the specific details of their patients' sex lives, and individuals may be hesitant to volunteer such information. However, if there are any concerns about potential exposure, it is important to discuss them with a healthcare provider and consider getting tested. Hepatitis C can remain in the body for decades before symptoms arise, but an early diagnosis and timely access to medication significantly improve the prognosis.

It is crucial to raise awareness about hepatitis C and ensure that individuals have access to affordable and effective treatments. By addressing the barriers to care and improving healthcare policies, more people can be cured of hepatitis C and prevent further liver damage and complications associated with the disease.