Gochang-gun Conducts Free Hepatitis C Screening for Individuals Aged 40 and Over

The Gochang County Public Health Center in Jeonbuk announced on the 22nd that it is conducting free hepatitis C screening tests for residents of Gochang County aged 40 and over.

Hepatitis C is transmitted through blood-borne infection. The recommended candidates for screening include those who have received blood or blood product transfusions contaminated with the hepatitis C virus, organ transplants, intravenous drug abuse and shared or reused syringes, tattoos and piercings performed with contaminated instruments, sexual contact with infected individuals, and those who have experienced acupuncture or cupping therapy performed by unqualified persons.

The testing plan targets 500 people, and interest has been high, with about 120 people visiting during the first week of testing.

Those wishing to be tested can visit the Gochang County Public Health Center with their ID card to receive the test.

Test results will be sent by mail one week after the test. Those with positive findings will be guided to undergo detailed examinations and treatment, and if confirmed, will be advised on how to apply for registration as a national cancer liver cancer screening candidate under the National Health Insurance Service.

There is no preventive vaccine for hepatitis C, and it is not included in the national health screening program. Also, since many people infected with hepatitis C are asymptomatic, it is recommended to undergo screening tests.

Yoo Byung-soo, head of the health center, said, “The free hepatitis C screening test seems to have served as an opportunity to raise awareness of hepatitis C, which has low social interest,” and added, “I hope that early detection through screening and active treatment will prevent the occurrence of liver cancer and help people lead healthy lives.”

Gochang = Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Kim Jae-gil baekok@asiae.co.kr