Hepatitis C is a kind of liver disease that is caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV). In the US, 25% to 30% of people with HIV are also infected with hepatitis C.
People infected with the hepatitis C virus can go on to have liver damage.
People with HIV and hepatitis C may have a bigger risk of severe liver damage than people who only have hepatitis C. People with both illnesses may also experience liver damage sooner.
Hepatitis C testing and treatment
Because HIV and hepatitis C are spread through many of the same ways, people who are at risk for HIV are also at risk for hepatitis C. Though hepatitis C has symptoms, not everyone who is infected will show them. That’s why it’s important to get tested for hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C can be treated; and, in most cases, HIV and hepatitis C treatment can happen at the same time. Your HCP may want to start HIV treatment first to keep your immune system strong before you begin hepatitis C treatment. On the other hand, your HCP may start hepatitis C treatment earlier to make it easier for your liver to process HIV medications. Talk to your HCP about what’s right for you.
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