One-time viral hepatitis screening for baby boomers

You may have seen ads lately recommending that baby boomers get tested for hepatitis C. Is that true? Should all baby boomers get tested? People born between 1945 and 1965 are five times more likely to have the virus than other age groups according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

What’s viral hepatitis?

Hepatitis C is a liver disease that can cause liver damage cirrhosis and liver cancer. This causes serious health problems in the long run the CDC noted. The virus is also the leading cause of liver transplants. It’s spread through contact with blood and can be passed from a mother to a baby by sharing needles and through unprotected sex.

Why should baby boomers get tested?

The CDC estimated that about 75 percent of the people infected with hepatitis C in the U.S. are baby boomers. Most people don’t even know they’re infected. The reason for these high rates isn’t known for sure but transmission of the virus was at its highest in the 1960s through the 1980s. In the 1990s health care organizations developed precautions and infection control procedures for medical equipment and blood products are now screened for the virus.

How do I get tested?

Medicare will likely pay for a one-time blood test to screen for the virus the CDC explained. This test looks for antibodies or chemicals that a virus releases into the blood stream to check for hepatitis C. If you test positive for the antibody you’ll need a follow-up test to see if you have an active infection.

In many cases you can receive treatment that cures the virus and prevents further liver damage according to the CDC. If you’re living with chronic hepatitis C your doctor can medically manage the disease and may recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding alcohol to help you stay healthy.

Who else should get tested?

Although a one-time screening test is recommended for all baby boomers other people may need this test as well. The CDC explained that the list includes:

• Anyone who has ever injected illegal drugs;
• Health care workers who may have been exposed on the job;
• Anyone with HIV; and
• Children of mothers with hepatitis C.

Talk to your doctor about whether you need to testing for viral hepatitis C and whether your insurance will cover the cost.

If you are 50 and older and need a place for primary care Reid Geriatrics is accepting new patients.

If you are concerned about your risk for hepatitis C contact Reid Infectious Disease.

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