Three-quarters of Romanians have not been tested for hepatitis C, although they can do it for free

A survey conducted by the Association of Patients with Hepatic Diseases in Romania (APAH-RO) shows that 70% of Romanians have never been tested for hepatitis C, although ################################################################################ Almost all of them said they were aware. the severity of this condition.

APAH representatives noted the lack of information, especially since each insured person has the right to free testing only on the recommendation of the family doctor.

"To achieve the goal of the World Health Organization to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030, we must take important steps such as prevention and diagnosis. Medical checks should not be considered the ultimate solution when we feel bad, but must become an annual routine to prevent complications that can affect our lives in the medium and long term "said Marinela Debu, president of APAH-RO.

In addition, although most said that cancer and cirrhosis were complications of liver disease, 44% of them said they did not know how the disease could be prevented. Also, because of the lack of information, people have admitted that they would change attitude if they discovered that someone close to hepatitis and interact less with it.

"People diagnosed with hepatitis C should know that since September of this year, a new cost / outcome contract for the interferon-free program has come into effect and that, according to the new provisions, patients starting out with the first degree of fibrosis have access to treatment, and doctors have in their selection system all the innovative therapies available on the Romanian market so that the treatment of each patient is as personalized as possible ", added the representatives of the association.

They also announced that they would continue their testing campaigns in the coming period, contributing this year alone to testing 1,000 people, particularly people from disadvantaged areas.