Gangjin-gun Offers Free Testing for Hepatitis B and C

Free Testing Conducted for 337 County Residents Aged 40 and Over Selected

Hepatitis screening blood draw scene at Gangjin-gun Public Health Center (Photo by Gangjin-gun)

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Kim Yong-su] Gangjin-gun, Jeollanam-do announced on the 2nd that it will provide free hepatitis B and C virus tests until the 31st to detect liver cancer early and prevent its occurrence.

Hepatitis B and C viruses are the most significant risk factors for liver cancer in Korea, accounting for 80% of liver cancer cases. In particular, hepatitis C has no preventive vaccine, and 70% of antibody carriers are asymptomatic, making it difficult to identify carriers, so screening is even more important.

The Gangjin-gun Public Health Center will select 373 residents aged 40 and over to provide free hepatitis tests for the prevention and early diagnosis of liver cancer.

Residents wishing to be tested should bring their ID and visit the local public health center or health branch office. However, those eligible for the national liver cancer screening program for the current year and those who underwent hepatitis B and C tests last year are excluded.

After conducting antibody tests, the county will refer those with suspicious results to hospitals for detailed examinations and provide health services to promote healthy behaviors.

Seo Hyun-mi, director of the public health center, stated, “We will continue to contribute to improving the health level of the community through early screening for infectious disease prevention,” and added, “We hope residents show interest and participate in this free hepatitis testing.”