Hepatitis C virus continues to be both a clinical and underwriting epidemic. There are an estimated 175 million people infected with the Hepatitis C virus, making it 4-5 times more prevalent than the HIV virus. About a fifth of new cases of Hepatitis are of Hepatitis C, and it is the leading cause of post-transfusion Hepatitis.

Hepatitis C is particularly difficult to assess progress-wise because those affected rarely seem to know they have it until they are screened for it or liver function tests on routine testing are abnormal. Most people are asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis. Only about 20% of people ever develop acute jaundice after infection. The leading causes of Hepatitis C are still past transfusions and chronic or even occasional IV drug use.

Hepatitis C infection is usually a slow and chronic one; there is gradual but persistent progression. It is estimated to take up to 30 years from the time of infection to the development of major complications, but it isn't always that simple. It is very hard to trace the original date of infection in many people, and as such the discovery of virus may mean the individual has had the infection for up to half that time period. Additionally, the virus progresses much more quickly in some people, who may manifest symptoms in a much shorter time frame.

Hepatitis C infection may progress faster with certain additional co-morbid risks. Those who have HIV infection, those who have Hepatitis B as well, and those who drink alcohol to anything more than an occasional degree increase the risk of complications.

Treatment is with a drug called interferon. About one in four patients with Hepatitis C shows a distinct improvement and remission with the drug. Liver biopsies and serial following of liver function tests are used to monitor progress.

The information contained on this page is not intended to provide medical advice, which should be obtained directly from your physician.