Probability of Having Hepatitis C

Approximately 2.4 million Americans are currently living with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, with about 1% of the adult population affected. The CDC recommends universal one-time HCV screening for all adults aged 18 and older, as many people are unaware of their infection (about 40% of infected individuals don't know their status).

Baby boomers (born 1945-1965) account for about 75% of all HCV infections, largely due to blood transfusions before 1992 (when screening began) and injection drug use. Current risk factors include injection drug use (the primary route of new infections), sharing needles, healthcare exposures, and birth to an HCV-infected mother.

The development of direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) represents one of modern medicine's greatest achievements: these oral medications cure over 95% of HCV infections in just 8-12 weeks with minimal side effects. Before DAAs, treatment with interferon cured only about 40-50% with severe side effects over 48 weeks. Despite the availability of curative treatment, barriers including cost, lack of awareness, and limited access to care prevent many from being treated. Left untreated, chronic HCV can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and liver cancer.