Hepatitis C is the most common blood-borne infection in the United States, affecting an estimated 3.2 million people.
The virus mainly affects the liver and can lead to cirrhosis (liver scarring) and liver cancer.
Hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver transplants in the U.S.
It is transmitted when an infected person’s blood enters the bloodstream of another person.
You should be tested if:
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you were born between 1945 and 1965, regardless of other risk factors
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you’ve used intravenous or intranasal drugs even once
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you’ve engaged in anal intercourse or vigorous, unprotected sex with multiple partners
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you had a transfusion of blood or blood products, like plasma, before 1992
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you are or have been on hemodialysis
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you got a tattoo or piercing in a non-sterile environment
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you have sex or share personal care items, like a razor or toothbrush, with someone who has hepatitis C
To get tested:
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Ask your healthcare provider if you are eligible for the hepatitis C antibody test.
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A few Southwest PA sites that screen for hepatitis C are:
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Mercy Behavioral Health, 1200 Reedsdale St., Pittsburgh
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Central Outreach, 1860 Centre Ave., Pittsburgh
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Butler Community Health Clinic, 103 Bonnie Drive, Butler
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To learn about prescription assistance programs, visit:
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For Harvoni or Sovaldi, http://www.gilead.com/responsibility/us-patient-access
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For Viekira Pak, http://www.abbviepaf.org/
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For Olysio, www.JanssenPrescriptionAssistance.com
For more information on hepatitis C, visit:
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Help-4-Hep: http://www.help4hep.org/
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Caring Ambassadors hepatitis C program: www.hepcchallenge.org
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CDC Division of Viral Hepatitis: www.cdc.gov/knowmorehepatitis
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HCV Advocate: www.hcvadvocate.org
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Hepatitis C Association: www.hepcassoc.org