Hepatitis C, a liver infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), poses a significant health threat that can lead to severe complications like liver failure, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. With no vaccine available, understanding the risk factors and populations most vulnerable to this infection is crucial for prevention and early treatment.

The virus primarily spreads through contact with blood from an infected person, making certain groups more susceptible than others. Among these, baby boomers, individuals born between 1945 and 1965, are at least five times more likely to be infected than other age groups. This heightened risk is partly attributed to less stringent medical procedures and screenings in the past, which facilitated the transmission of HCV.

Another group facing increased risk includes children born to mothers with hepatitis C. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that about 6% of babies born to infected mothers contract the virus, particularly if the mother has a high viral load during pregnancy.

Healthcare workers are also at greater risk due to potential exposure to infected blood through needle-stick injuries or other accidents. Similarly, individuals who have undergone blood transfusions or organ transplants before July 1992, or received clotting factor concentrates before 1997, face higher chances of infection due to the absence of rigorous blood screening processes at the time.

Personal habits and practices further influence one’s risk of contracting hepatitis C. Sharing personal items like razors, nail clippers, and toothbrushes that might come into contact with infected blood increases one’s risk. Engaging in drug use through shared needles or having tattoos or piercings done in unsterile environments also raises susceptibility to HCV.

Additionally, people with HIV, individuals who have injected drugs—even if only once or many years ago—and those who have had long-term hemodialysis for kidney failure are at elevated risk. Sexual behaviours that involve exposure to blood, having multiple sexual partners, or a history of sexually transmitted diseases also contribute to one’s risk level.

Interestingly, racial disparities exist in hepatitis C infection rates, with Black Americans experiencing higher rates of infection and related deaths. However, advancements in treatment have led to a decrease in these rates, offering hope for better outcomes across all demographics.

Despite the challenges posed by hepatitis C, breakthroughs in treatment have revolutionised care, enabling most people to be cured of the virus without the need for injections or experiencing toxic side effects. The key to combating hepatitis C lies in awareness, early screening, and taking advantage of the highly effective treatments available today.

Understanding the risk factors and populations most at risk is the first step towards reducing the spread of hepatitis C and ensuring those affected receive the care they need. With continued efforts in education, prevention, and treatment, we can mitigate the impact of this virus and move towards a healthier future for all affected individuals.

Source: WebMD