December 4th, 2012
Hepatitis C is an infectious liver disease caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). It is estimated that around 150 million people worldwide are infected.1 The most common way it is transmitted is through contact with an infected person’s blood.2
The virus can result in inflammation and damage to the liver, affecting its ability to function properly and, if not treated, can cause cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver failure, or even death.3
Hepatitis C is often referred to as a ‘silent disease’,4 as in most cases it does not cause any symptoms, meaning that many people will be unaware that they are infected until their liver has been seriously damaged. Other people may experience symptoms such as depression, fatigue, skin problems, insomnia, pain and digestive disorders, many of which may be attributed to other illnesses.5
There are two stages of infection5: the first stage, following initial infection, is known as acute infection. Around one in five people will recover naturally from the disease during this time.5 The second phase, chronic infection, where the virus remains in the body, will affect the remaining 80% of those infected.5
There are six different types of genotypes, or strains, of the hepatitis C virus.6 If you are infected, it is important to know which strain you have as this can impact on your treatment.
