Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is a significant global health problem, with an estimated 71 million individuals infected worldwide.

The disease can range from acute to chronic infection and may lead to long-term complications such as liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and ultimately death.

Hepatitis C is primarily transmitted through exposure to contaminated blood, commonly through injection drug use or unsafe medical procedures.

However, it can also be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to child during childbirth. The diagnosis of hepatitis C is made by detecting specific HCV antibodies in the blood.

Treatments for hepatitis C have significantly improved over the years, with direct-acting antiviral medications now offering high cure rates exceeding 95%. However, access to these treatments remains limited in many regions.

Therefore, prevention strategies such as harm reduction programs and increased awareness about transmission modes are crucial in reducing the burden of hepatitis C globally.