The doctor pointed out the need for timely diagnosis of hepatitis C

Olga Otdelnova, Deputy Minister of Health of the Moscow Region, told on Tuesday, July 21, how to detect hepatitis C in time and why it is called the "gentle killer."

In an interview with Radio 1, the specialist noted that the main task of doctors is to identify hepatitis C as early as possible, since modern medicine makes it possible to successfully treat it. According to her, the tests have become more accessible: they can be taken during medical examinations, hospitalization, preparation for surgery and pregnancy. Hepatitis C treatment is provided free of charge under the compulsory medical insurance policy.

Otselnova noted the increase in the number of screenings and stressed that there is an almost 100% effective therapy against the disease. However, many patients are unaware of the diagnosis, as hepatitis C may not manifest itself for years. That is why the disease is called the "gentle killer."

The doctor explained that doctors try to identify patients themselves, without waiting for complaints to appear, since at this stage the disease may already be started.

Modern therapy lasts from 6 to 12 weeks and does not require serious restrictions: the patient takes pills and continues to lead a habitual lifestyle. After the course, a follow-up blood test is performed. According to statistics, 95-98% of patients recover completely.

Residents of the Moscow region over the age of 25 can get tested for hepatitis C free of charge during a medical examination. You can get screened for free as part of a medical examination once every 10 years. In case of a positive result, the patient is prescribed additional examinations. 360.ru .

In March, doctor Alexander Antonov dispelled the myth of the incurable hepatitis C. According to him, double-blind studies show sustained virological response (SVR) after 8-12 weeks of DAA, notes Pravda.Ru .

In turn, infectious disease specialist Sergey Ryabov spoke about the dangerous consequences of hepatitis C. The main danger of infection lies in its asymptomatic course, which is why the disease is often detected at late stages.

Natalia Pakskina, Deputy Director of the Department of Emergency Medical Care and Health Risk Management at the Ministry of Health, said that foreigners coming to Russia will be tested for hepatitis B, C and D this year, the National Health Service notes.

Last summer, Vladimir Chulanov, chief freelance specialist in infectious diseases at the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, reported that the detection rate of hepatitis C in the Russian Federation has increased in recent years. He also noted that today every child who has been diagnosed with hepatitis C can be immediately included in the treatment program, the Moscow City News agency reports.