Hepatitis C (HCV) is a blood-borne viral infection which can, over decades, lead to liver fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis, and in some patients liver cancer and death. It is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. Approximately 4 million Americans have chronic hepatitis C; however, it is estimated that only about 50% of people with HCV in the US have been diagnosed. Medications can cure greater than 95% of people with hepatitis C.
There are high rates of hepatitis C in prisons and jails. Read our Overview of Hepatitis C in Prisons and Jails for more information.
In the last few years, hepatitis C treatment has changed dramatically. Many new medications have been released to treat hepatitis C. Current treatment for hepatitis C lasts 12-24 weeks and results in a cure for between 90% and 97% of patients. Most hepatitis C patients may now be cured without using interferon.
People in prison or jail may have limited access to treatment - visit our patient rights page for more information about legal rights to medical care while incarcerated.
The Hepatitis Education Project (HEP) is a great resource. HEP provides medical case management and support. HEP can be contacted if you have questions. Please visit HEP's webpage at www.hepeducation.org.
The Hepatitis Education Project (HEP) is a great resource. HEP provides medical case management and support. HEP can be contacted if you have questions. Please visit HEP's webpage at www.hepeducation.org.
Additioanl Resources and educational factsheets from the former Hepatitis C Support Project through HCVAdvocate.org can be downloaded below.
"Overview of the Liver"
"What is Fibrosis?"
"HCV Disease Progress"
"Managing HCV Living"
"Hepatitis C Management - Nutrition"