
Chronic hepatitis C
Chronic hepatitis C is a long-term infection caused by the hepatitis C virus (HCV), which primarily affects the liver. Many people with this condition may not show symptoms for years, but it can lead to serious liver damage, cirrhosis, or liver cancer if untreated. The virus is usually spread through blood-to-blood contact, often from sharing needles or receiving contaminated blood products. Fortunately, effective antiviral treatments are available that can cure the infection in most cases, reducing the risk of liver damage and improving overall health. Regular medical check-ups are important for managing the disease.