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Liver Cancer on the Rise

Although cancer mortality in the United States continues to decline, death rates from liver cancer increased by 43 percent between 2000 and 2016. Additionally, Texas maintains the nation’s second highest incidence rate for liver cancer. The most common risk factor in the United States is chronic hepatitis C.

Know the Facts

An estimated 2.5 million Americans are living with the hepatitis C virus—the leading cause of liver cancer, however most do not know they are infected. Many people can live with hepatitis C for decades without any symptoms, and if left untreated, hepatitis C can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis and even liver cancer. A simple blood test is the only way to know if you have hepatitis C.

Who should get tested?

People born between 1945 and 1965, often referred to as Baby Boomers, are five times more likely to have hepatitis C than other adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all Baby Boomers get tested. Moncrief Cancer Institute provides free testing for hepatitis C to those who qualify, and it only takes a few minutes.

Screening and Treatment

Hepatitis C is now curable, and while there is no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C, there are very effective medications to treat it. Screening and treatment for hepatitis C significantly reduces the risk of liver cancer and death. According to the CDC, cures of hepatitis C are associated with a 75 percent reduced risk of liver cancer.

Get tested. It could save your life. Call 800.405.7739 to schedule an appointment.

Funding is provided by a grant from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT).