If you were born between 1945 and 1965 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you be tested for a hepatitis C (August 2012).

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the most common chronic bloodborne infection in the United States; an estimated 3.2 million persons are chronically infected.

A, B, C…VD?

Yes, it’s in many STD test panels, but, no, Hep C is not generally considered an STD.

Hepatitis A, B, D and E are totally different animals, and–like C– are bloodborne pathogens. All can harm your liver. Seriously.

Symptoms?

Not too many. That’s one of the problems.

Contagious?

You bet. It can be transmitted by needles, blood, or even a shared toothbrush or razor blade.

Why? Why now?

  • High rates of Hepatitis C in people born during 1945-1965.
  • People born from 1945-1965 are 5 times more likely than other adults to be infected.
  • 75% of adults with Hepatitis C were born in these years.

It is not completely understood why baby boomers have such high rates of hep C. There is also a lack of awareness.

No symptoms? So what’s the big deal?

You could die. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.

The CDC estimates that one-time testing of everyone born during 1945 through 1965 would find an estimated 800,000 undiagnosed cases.

HCV is treatable. A test could save your life. Or give you peace of mind. Either is a good result.

A hepatitis C test is easy, inexpensive and confidential at InOut Labs. And it won’t take long.  It’s a quick blood draw, and you’ll have your results in a couple days.

No doctor’s order needed. Call 847-657-7900 or send us an email.