Learn More About Hep C

You may not look or feel sick, but the hepatitis C virus could be damaging your liver.

Approximately 3.2 million Americans have chronic hepatitis C virus infection, a potentially serious disease that can damage the liver over time. Of those, an estimated one million are Hispanic. It is the leading cause of cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) and may lead to end-stage liver disease and liver cancer. Liver failure from chronic HCV infection is the leading cause of liver transplants in the U.S.

Everyone's story is different – while chronic hepatitis C is associated with IV drug use, some people were infected through non-sterile body piercings or tattoos. Others were infected during blood transfusions or organ transplants before widespread screening of blood began in the U.S. in 1992. Today, we understand that anyone can get hepatitis by coming into contact with an infected person's blood.

Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection is described as a silent disease because many people infected do not know that they have the disease. Approximately 70 to 80 percent of people newly infected with the disease do not have symptoms. But in reality, while you may not look or feel sick, the hepatitis C disease may be damaging your liver.

If you think you may be among the 130-170 million people worldwide who are chronically infected with the disease, don't wait – talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about your options. And remember, the time it takes chronic hepatitis C to cause liver damage is different for everyone. Make today your day to take action.

You may have chronic hepatitis C or know someone who does. Learn more about this silent disease at the links below:

• All About Hep C
• American Liver Foundation*
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Hepatitis C FAQs for the Public
• National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
• National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
• Viral Hepatitis Action Coalition

*About American Liver Foundation

The American Liver Foundation is a national nonprofit organization promoting liver health and disease prevention. American Liver Foundation provides research, education and advocacy for those affected by liver-related diseases, including hepatitis. The American Liver Foundations' mission is to facilitate, advocate and promote education, support and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of liver disease.