04/13/16
Rapid hepatitis C screening tests, designed on the same model as the latest generation AIDS screening tests, will soon be available in France. They allow you to obtain a reliable result in 15 seconds, with a simple prick of the fingertip.
Hepatitis C test result in 15 minutes
The waiting time between the blood test and the result is one of the dissuasive elements for those who want to be tested for a suspected disease such as AIDS, or hepatitis C. We can understand it: when we have finally decided to take the blood test, then having to wait several days generates significant stress. Some people no longer have the heart to come and get the results, or wait several weeks to do so, others give up taking the test when they learn the time required to obtain a result.
For now, however, these rapid tests will only be used by associations working with populations at risk, mainly drug addicts.. The hepatitis C virus is in fact transmitted through the blood, but it can also be transmitted during “violent” sexual intercourse, otherwise called “traumatic”, causing lesions, in particular in homosexuals.
Hepatitis C is transmitted through the blood
Hepatitis C concerns at least 400,000 people in France. But it is estimated that 75,000 patients are infected but still ignore it. The virus is transmitted to drug addicts by sharing equipment, mainly syringes, but also spoons or cotton balls contaminated with blood.
Hepatitis C causes a long and slow degradation of the liver, but also other pathologies such as diabetes. It also promotes the appearance of certain cancers. Hepatitis C is treatable, but with treatments that are very expensive for the community. The latest molecule used to treat hepatitis C, Sovaldi, costs over € 40,000 for a full treatment. On the other hand, it is very effective, and eradicates the disease.
To read also: STDs, STIs, mycoses, etc …