6006.0: Thursday, October 25, 2001 - 9:30 AM

Abstract #32213

Hepatitis C, the silent epidemic: Recent findings on risk; testing asymptomatic, high-risk populations; and preventive messages

Teresa Hanbey, Hepatitis C Outreach Project, Vancouver, WA, , thanbey@hcop.org, Robert Hanley, MD, Professor of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Henry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 97217, and Richard Alexander, MS, MPH, Laboratory Director, Contra Costa Public Health, Martinez, CA, Martinez, CA.

One of the goals of the Hepatitis C Outreach Project (est. 1992; ) is to increase professional and community awareness of the public health implications of Hepatitis C, which affects over 4 million Americans, approximately 80% of cases are progressive. Early detection can lead to improved outcomes, reduced transmissions and decreased demand for donated livers. This panel will present three speakers involved in different aspects of controlling the spread of hepatitis C. In the first presentation, Robert Haley, MD will discuss conclusions drawn from his recently published study regarding a surprisingly high risk of Hepatitis C associated with commercial tattooing. The panel will also include Richard Alexander, MPH, who will present his work on the cost effectiveness of screening asymptomatic populations, and Kevin Weeks, who will present an educational program in the State of Oregon targeting youth, ages 13-20 years regarding the hidden risks of tattoos and body piercing.

Learning Objectives: 1) At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to discuss screening methodologies for HCV serostatus. 2) At the end of this discussion, participants will be able to identify a cost-effective algorithm for screening populations for HCV.

Keywords: Hepatitis C, Sexual Risk Behavior

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Handout (.ppt format, 467.5 kb)

Handout (.ppt format, 102.5 kb)

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA