During the month of July, The FDHA brought awareness to Hepatitis. The most common types are Hepatitis A (HAV), Hepatitis B (HBV) and Hepatitis C (HCV). If untreated, hepatitis can cause liver damage, liver failure, and or liver cancer. Hepatitis can be spread through sex with an infected person. Men who have sexual contact with other men (MSM) are at increased risk for both Hepatitis A and B. Vaccinations are available to protect you from Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. If you think that you may have been exposed to Hepatitis C, then talk with your healthcare provider or about screening and treatment options.
Through website marketing, social media, and a lunch and learn webinar, the Atlanta public gained heightened awareness on the devastating impact hepatitis can have on your health. The July 15th virtual lunch and learn was facilitated by Sherard Polite, FDHA Health Educator. The guest speaker was Lesley Miller, MD, FACP. Dr. Miller has many titles and responsibilities, including Medical Director, Grady Liver Clinic Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, and Geriatrics at Emory University School of Medicine. The webinar educated attendees on the Top 10 things we must know about Hepatitis C in 2020. Attendees were given many takeaways and the latest recommendations. Key pieces of information included the following:
- Hepatitis is Common – Approximately 2.3 Million Americans in the U.S. are living with Hepatitis C. It affects all kinds of people.
- Hepatitis C is on the rise – Between 2000 – 2014, new cases in the U.S. increased by 250%.
- Hepatitis C is Deadly – It kills more Americans than HIV.
- Liver Cancer is on the rise as a result of untreated Hepatitis.
- The hepatitis viruses are A, B, C, D, E.
Dr. Miller educated webinar attendees on the differences, causes, which versions have preventative vaccines, treatments, and cure rates. The most eye-opening piece of information was that medical recommendations have changed and all adults over 18 should be tested for Hepatitis C. Why talk about Hep C? Because it is common, deadly, and curable! Hepatitis C treatment is accessible in Atlanta through the Grady Liver Clinic. Comprehensive services include counseling, education, vaccination, fibrosis staging, Cirrhosis management, and treatment.
Author: The FDHA
