A Curable Infection That Requires Early Detection
Hepatitis C was once a lifelong condition - now it can be cured in over 95% of cases with 8-12 weeks of treatment. Many people don't know they're infected. Testing is the first step to cure.
Hepatitis C is a blood-borne viral infection primarily affecting the liver. Unlike Hepatitis A and B, there is no vaccine, but revolutionary direct-acting antiviral medications now cure over 95% of infections. Without treatment, chronic Hepatitis C can lead to serious liver disease over decades. Early detection through testing is crucial as most people have no symptoms until liver damage occurs.
Testing involves an antibody test first - if positive, a PCR test confirms active infection by detecting viral RNA. We can also determine the genotype (virus type) which may guide treatment. Liver assessment through blood tests or FibroScan helps evaluate any existing damage. All HIV-positive individuals and those at risk should be tested regularly.
Hepatitis C is now curable with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) such as sofosbuvir/velpatasvir or glecaprevir/pibrentasvir. Treatment typically lasts 8-12 weeks with cure rates over 95%. Treatment is well-tolerated with few side effects. Post-treatment, you'll need a test to confirm the virus has cleared. Reinfection is possible, so risk reduction remains important.
Yes. Direct-acting antiviral medications cure over 95% of people with Hepatitis C. Treatment usually takes just 8-12 weeks with tablets. This is a medical breakthrough - until 2014, treatment was much less effective and had severe side effects. Now, cure is the expected outcome.
Sexual transmission is possible but less efficient than blood-borne transmission. Risk is higher for men who have sex with men, especially those with HIV, during rough sex, chemsex, or fisting. Heterosexual transmission between monogamous partners is rare but not zero.
Yes if you've ever injected drugs (even once, years ago), received blood products before 1991, are HIV positive, engage in chemsex, have had an accidental needlestick, or have unexplained liver problems. When in doubt, test - it's a simple blood test.
Yes, being cured doesn't provide immunity. If you continue behaviours that risk exposure, reinfection is possible. However, reinfection can also be cured. Regular testing is recommended if you remain at risk. Harm reduction strategies help prevent reinfection.
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"Absolutely fantastic service. I was very nervous about the blood draw, but Nurse Luciana was so professional and gentle. She made the whole process painless. Results came back via secure email in 24 hours. Best clinic in South Kensington."
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