Boomer Health Hepatitis C isn’t only found in drug users

Boomer Health Hepatitis C isn’t only found in drug users

By BRIGID O’CONNOR for the Missoulian

Approximately 3.2 million Americans suffer from chronic liver problems due to the hepatitis C virus, and roughly that many more Americans are unaware that they are infected. Are you one?


The CDC is studying the value of recommending that every baby boomer be tested for hepatitis C. Why? Hepatitis is a disease of drug users, isn't it? The truth is that many boomers - individuals born between 1946 and 1964 - may have made choices years ago that put them at risk of becoming infected with the hepatitis C virus.

The complicating factor is that a person can be infected for decades and not be aware of it because the symptoms either aren't present or are subtle. If symptoms are present, they can include fatigue, "brain fog," body aches or an upset or painful stomach. Usually hepatitis C does not show any symptoms until the virus is already damaging the liver. While individuals can live for years, or even decades with no symptoms, the CDC estimates that 70 percent of those infected with hepatitis C will ultimately develop chronic liver disease.

If you answer yes to any of the following questions, you may be at risk of having hepatitis C:

• Have you ever had unprotected sex with someone whose hepatitis C status you don't know?

• Have you ever shared a toothbrush or razor with someone whose hepatitis C status you don't know?

• Have you ever snorted a drug using the same device (dollar bill, straw, etc.) with someone whose hepatitis C status you don't know?

• Have you ever had a homemade tattoo or piercing?

• Did you receive blood products before 1992?

Simply stated, you don't have to be an injection drug user to have been exposed to hepatitis C.

At a large software company in Seattle, a surprising number of successful middle-aged employees have been first diagnosed with hepatitis C when being screened for their company's life insurance program. A large hepatitis treatment center in Seattle sees hepatitis C as the great equalizer - it hits folks in all segments of society.

The good news is that hepatitis C can often be treated successfully. The current treatment lasts for approximately a year and is not unlike chemotherapy. And a second promising treatment regime, lasting only six months, is close to FDA approval.

So, fellow boomers, if you are unaware of your hepatitis C status, please get tested. The basic screen is $54 at the Missoula City-County Health Department, and subsequent testing is based on the initial screen results.
Call your provider or the health department and ask about getting tested for hepatitis C. It's a good investment in peace of mind.

The Missoulian's Booming section features a monthly column by a member of the Missoula City-County Health Department in order to assist Missoula baby boomer residents to be healthy and resilient. Brigid O'Connor is the infectious disease specialist, and can be reached at 258-3896 or at beoconnor@co.missoula.mt.us .

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