Hep C test for baby boomers ages 51-69

SeaMaiden · ‎03-10-2010

They are recommending this now. Have you had the test? Do you think it is necessary for everyone?

http://www.hepchope.com/?gclid=CNvIlv74wtQCFYhqfgodRQsOaQ&gclsrc=aw.ds

haddon9 · ‎03-09-2010

Why are they recommending it for Boomers?...why not older or younger?

GSPgirl · ‎01-03-2012

Yes! They have been recommending the test for a few years now. I had mine done 4 years ago. I'm 58.

millieshops · ‎03-09-2010

@SeaMaiden

I'm not sure why they've limited the age range and I've never had a transfusion so I'm not overly worried, but if I remember I'll ask my primary next month when I see him.

haddon9 · ‎03-09-2010

@millieshops wrote:
@SeaMaiden

I'm not sure why they've limited the age range and I've never had a transfusion so I'm not overly worried, but if I remember I'll ask my primary next month when I see him.

I never had one either but it might be a good idea to ask mine too the next time I go for a blood test.

SeaMaiden · ‎03-10-2010

@haddon9 wrote:
Why are they recommending it for Boomers?...why not older or younger?

@haddon9 This explains why Boomers are at risk

http://www.hepchope.com/?gclid=CNvIlv74wtQCFYhqfgodRQsOaQ&gclsrc=aw.ds

gizmogal · ‎05-09-2014

I've had the test, proved negative. I was born in 1948, so I'm a baby boomer. My doctor says I have no need to test again unless I am knowingly exposed. He didn't think the test was necessary but because I asked him about it, he obliged.

There is info about this from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

https://www.cdc.gov/knowmorehepatitis/media/pdfs/factsheet-boomers.pdf

SeaMaiden · ‎03-10-2010

Wonder if insurance covers the test.....

gizmogal · ‎05-09-2014

@SeaMaiden wrote:
Wonder if insurance covers the test.....

Medicare and my supplemental (AARP/UHC) insurance covered me fully.

maestra · ‎03-09-2010

blood screening didnt begin until 1992.

Intravenous drug users would sell blood tainted w/drugs and blood products became contaminated.

If you had a blood transfusion, Armed Services vaccinations w/air syringes there was cross contamination for this age group-born 1940-1965, or had blood products during a medical procedure/surgery. Tattoos were problematic as well.

HepC is a serious virus-all boomers should be tested since there is a cure.