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HOUSTON, TX, Jul 09 (Marketwire) --
The Houston gastroenterologists at Bay Area Gastroenterology alert
patients to the prevalence of Hepatitis C among the "baby boomer"
population and the simple blood test that can identify this silent
disease.
This initiative comes as the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta
launches its 17th annual Hepatitis Awarness Month this past May and
designates May 19 as National Hepatitis Testing day -- underscoring the
importance of a simple blood test identifying this silent disease and the
treatment saving thousands of lives each year.
Recognized as a looming health crisis, Hepatitis C particularly affects
those born between 1945 and 1965, today 47-67 years of age and identified
as the "baby boomer" population.
According to the Bay Area Gastroenterology consultants, there are
approximately two million people in this age group who are infected -- or
three percent of the baby boomers.
"Cure rates with current Hepatitis C treatment average 75 percent, which
means it is conceivable to cure approximately 800,000 patients and
prevent 120,000 deaths," said Dr. Ravi Mani, F.A.C.G., gastroenterology
specialist at Bay Area Gastroenterology.
"The major cause of death in untreated Hepatitis C patients is
progression to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Hepatitis C is a silent killer
and cannot be detected unless a specific blood test is done. A simple
blood test may save lives," added Dr. Mani.
The group of dedicated specialists in digestive diseases and liver is
publishing this public service message for all baby boomers and people
with risk factors for Hepatitis C, Hepatitis B, HIV and liver cirrhosis.
Bay Area Gastroenterology specialists are experts in the diagnosis and
treatment of ailments of the stomach, intestines, colon, liver,
gallbladder and pancreas.
Contact the gastroenterology consultants at Bay Area Gastroenterology for
further information, testing and treatment. Go to www.Gibay.com or call
281-480-6264 for more information.
Join the Gibay doctors on Facebook, Twitter to learn about the latest
news affecting your health. And check out our Blog and Videos.
Contact:
Bay Area Gastroenterology
(281) 480-6264
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