FoundCare Inc. Increases Hepatitis C Screening And Testing
Provides Free Testing For Uninsured
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – FoundCare, Inc. has increased the hepatitis C screening and testing services it provides. Hepatitis C is a contagious liver disease. The two types of hepatitis C are acute (which is mild and lasts a few weeks) and chronic (a lifelong illness). Acute hepatitis C leads to chronic hepatitis C for more than 75% of those infected. People with chronic hepatitis C may develop serious liver problems such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. Many people with hepatitis C do not experience any symptoms and do not know they have the disease. Because it is so important that people get tested, FoundCare is offering free hepatitis C testing for anyone who does not have health insurance.
The vast majority (70% to 80%) of people with acute hepatitis C do not have any symptoms. However, for those who do, symptoms may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, clay-colored bowel movements, joint pain and jaundice. Similarly, most people with chronic hepatitis C are symptom-free, however the disease often leads to liver damage. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that there are between 2.7 and 3.9 million people in the United States living with chronic hepatitis C. While treatments for the disease are available, hepatitis C remains the leading cause of liver cancer and liver transplants. According to the CDC, approximately 19,000 people die every year from hepatitis C-related liver disease.
Anyone can get hepatitis C, but three in four people diagnosed are part of the “baby boomer” generation. “The CDC recommends that everyone born from 1945 to 1965 be screened for hepatitis C,” said Dr. Leslie Diaz, infectious disease specialist for FoundCare. “Studies indicate baby boomers are five times more likely to have hepatitis C than other adults. Most people with the disease do not know they are infected and can live for decades without experiencing symptoms. This is why it is so important for people to get tested. ”
Anyone wishing to schedule a hepatitis C test is encouraged to call 561-HEALTHY (561-432-5849) to schedule an appointment.
FoundCare, Inc. is a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center that offers pediatric and adult primary care, chronic disease management, behavioral health services, dentistry, laboratory services and X-rays, and an on-site pharmacy, all in one location. FoundCare accepts most insurance plans, Medicaid, Medicare and self-pay on a sliding fee scale that is based on income and family size. For more information about FoundCare, please call 561-HEALTHY (561-432-5849) or visit www.foundcare.org.
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