What is Hepatitis C?

Hepatit C nedir?

 

Hepatitis C is a disease that often remains silent until the late stages, making early detection difficult. In the initial phase, it is usually asymptomatic or presents mild, nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, or digestive issues, which can occur in many other illnesses.

How is Hepatitis C transmitted?

Hepatitis C is primarily bloodborne and spreads from person to person via contact with infected blood. The highest risk is among:

  • Individuals who use intravenous drugs

  • Recipients of unscreened blood (though blood banks routinely screen donations in many countries)

  • People exposed to contaminated medical instruments

In many countries, the risk is reduced due to:

  • Use of single-use needles and medical equipment

  • Routine blood screening

Transmission through sexual contact is debated, but having multiple sexual partners may increase the risk. Hepatitis C does not spread through casual contact such as:

  • Shaking hands

  • Kissing

  • Social interactions at home or work

Diagnosis of Hepatitis C

Unlike other types of hepatitis, Hepatitis C usually does not cause jaundice, making early diagnosis challenging.

  • Approximately 30% of infected individuals clear the infection naturally.

  • About 70% develop chronic Hepatitis C, of whom 20–30% may develop cirrhosis, and 1–2% may develop liver cancer over time.

  • Chronic progression is slow:

    • Chronic Hepatitis develops ~10 years after initial infection

    • Cirrhosis develops ~20 years after infection

    • Liver cancer develops ~30 years after infection

Risk factors for faster progression include alcohol consumption, especially in men over 40.

Treatment of Hepatitis C

Early detection significantly improves the chance of full recovery.

  • Patients are often diagnosed incidentally during routine tests or blood donation.

  • Disease progression is monitored via:

    • Blood tests

    • Liver function tests

    • Liver biopsy (when necessary)

Treatment plans and precautions are tailored based on these assessments. Modern antiviral therapies are highly effective in curing Hepatitis C in most patients.

Prevention of Hepatitis C

Prevention focuses on reducing exposure to infected blood:

  • Avoid sharing needles, razors, or personal items

  • Follow strict hygiene practices

  • Ensure all medical procedures use sterile equipment