19 May 2009

Push to treat more people living with Hepatitis C

South Eastern Sydney Illawarra Health (SESIH) and Hepatitis Australia are joining forces to educate everyone about Hepatitis B and C and encourage those living with the viruses to seek treatment.

Hepatitis Awareness Week is 18-24 May and the theme is ‘Am I Number 12’, which reflects the global statistic that one in 12 people is living with the virus.

In Australia there are 160,000 people who live with Hepatitis B and of the 208,000 people who have chronic Hepatitis C only about 2000 people undertake treatment.

A recently released NSW Health report states the need to double the numbers of people in Hepatitis C treatment by 2012 to have a significant impact on the long-term health, social and economic consequences of this chronic illness.

This year SESIH has increased funding to viral Hepatitis treatment to ensure more nursing and psychosocial support, as well as provide outreach programs and cater services to those with special needs including Aboriginal people, those with drug and alcohol problems and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Hepatitis is a serious health condition that attacks the liver. Some symptoms are fatigue, irritability, abdominal pain and depression. Reduced alcohol consumption, eating healthy food and regular exercise can help slow the progression of liver disease.

Kelly, a mother of three from Sutherland, has lived with Hepatitis C for 14 years and has made lifestyle choices to reduce the impact it has on her day to day life.

She said it was important people understood Hepatitis C is transmitted through blood, while Hepatitis B can be contracted through blood and unprotected sex, not simply touching or hugging someone with the virus.

Kelly said better awareness would help dispel the stereotypes and myths and help to encourage people living with the virus to seek treatment.

There is also a vaccine to prevent Hepatitis B.

It is time to learn the facts. Call 1300 437 222 (1300 HEP ABC) or visit www.hepatitisaustralia.com.

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Media Enquiries: Melissa Chain, 9382 8226 or 0421 618 793