Who are at increased risk of getting hepatitis C? Can hepatitis C be transmitted sexually?
Dr. Edward Block: Blood transfusion used to be a major risk factor. Fortunately, as a result of the increased stringency requirements, blood transfusions are no longer a major risk factor in this country. So, our viewers should know that if they should ever require a blood transfusion, they should feel fairly secure because the risk for hepatitis C exposure from blood transfusion is very small. At this time, the principal risk for acquiring hepatitis C appears to be the use of injection drugs, primarily IV drug abuse. IV drug users comprise upwards of 40% of those who are diagnosed with new cases of hepatitis C. Other high-risk activities include other drug use (including intra-nasal cocaine use). People with multiple sex partners are also considered to be at high risk (although the actual risk of sexual transfer of this disease is thought to be relatively low). Dr. Lee: As opposed to, let’s say, sexual transmission of Hepatitis B. Dr. Edward Block: Yes, as opposed to hepatitis B, the
