Hepatitis C Screening: What You Need to Know

Did you know that Malaysia is a hotspot for hepatitis C? It is estimated that around 200,000 people in the country are infected with the virus. Hepatitis C is a serious disease that can lead to chronic liver disease causing liver damage, cancer, and even death. The good news is that hepatitis C is curable and the earlier it is detected, the better.

How is it transmitted?

The hepatitis C virus, or HCV, is most often spread through contact with infected blood. This can happen through sharing needles or other drug-injecting equipment, having unprotected sex with an infected person, or coming into contact with contaminated blood (for example, through a blood transfusion). Hepatitis C infection can also be passed from mother to child during pregnancy or delivery.

How can you tell if you have an HCV infection?

The most common symptoms of hepatitis C include:

• fatigue

• nausea

• vomiting

• dark urine

• jaundice

The symptoms of a chronic HCV infection can be:

• Chronic fatigue

• Fever

• Loss of appetite

• Weight loss

• Abdominal pain

• Joint pain

• Skin rash

• Itching

What screenings are available for HCV infection in Malaysia?

There are different types of hepatitis C screening tests available. Some of these tests are used to diagnose hepatitis C, while others are used to monitor the disease. Common tests include:

• Blood tests: These tests look for antibodies (anti-HCV) in your blood that are produced in response to the hepatitis C virus. Antibodies are proteins that the body makes to fight infection. They usually appear a few months after you get infected with hepatitis C. HCV RNA (or HCV core antigen) should be evaluated to detect viremia or current HCV infection in patients with anti-HCV antibodies.

• Liver function tests: These tests check for enzymes that are released into the blood when the liver is damaged in HCV-related liver disease.

• Imaging tests: These tests, such as ultrasounds and CT scans, can be used to look for signs of liver damage.

The cost of hepatitis C testing varies depending on the type of test used. Blood tests, for example, can cost as little as RM50. Liver function tests and imaging tests are usually more expensive.

Where can you get screened for hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C screening is available at most hospitals and clinics in Malaysia. You can also get tested at some community health centres.

What happens if you are tested positive?

If you test positive for hepatitis C virus (HCV RNA‑positivity), your doctor will likely recommend further testing to confirm the diagnosis. This may include another blood test, a liver biopsy, or imaging tests. If you are diagnosed with hepatitis C, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you. Hepatitis C (virus) infection can be treated with medication, but treatment can be costly.

Hepatitis C treatment in Malaysia

The most common treatments for hepatitis C include:

• Interferon therapy: This type of therapy uses drugs that help the body fight infection. It is usually used to treat people who have chronic hepatitis C infections.

• Peginterferon and ribavirin: This combination therapy is also used to treat people with a severe form of the disease.

• Direct-acting antivirals: These drugs work directly against the virus and are becoming the preferred treatment option for many people.

The earlier the disease is detected, the better the chances of treating it. So, if you're concerned about hepatitis C, make sure to get screened! DoctorOnCall offers consultation and information on booking the vaccination. 

Remember, early detection is key to successful treatment!