Sponsored Editorial

Approximately 70,000 people in England may be unknowingly living with hepatitis C, a virus that can lead to severe liver damage and cancer if left untreated.

In response, NHS England has launched a free test-at-home service, making it easier for people to discover their status and seek treatment.

The new NHS test-at-home service for hepatitis C is safe, discreet and easy to use. The at-home testing kits, which can be ordered through the NHS website, involve a simple finger prick to collect a blood sample.

This service also includes immediate treatment options for those who test positive, addressing the infection before it causes severe health issues. Order your test today here or speak to your GP.

Hepatitis C spreads through:
- Blood transfusions before 1996.
- Sharing needles and snorting drugs.
- Body piercing and tattoos.
- Surgeries and dental work done abroad.
- Sharing toothbrushes.

This initiative is more than just a testing service; it’s a vital public health movement. By encouraging testing, especially among those who may have been exposed to risk factors, the NHS is taking a significant step towards preventing the spread of hepatitis C and ensuring those affected receive the necessary care.

This initiative is part of the Hepatitis C Elimination Programme, aiming to position England among the first countries to eradicate the virus as a public health concern.

The timing of this initiative is particularly poignant following the recent Infected Blood Inquiry report, which revealed that 30,000 people were infected due to contaminated blood products before 1996.

The report underscores the importance of this testing service, especially for those who received blood transfusions before safety standards were significantly improved. The NHS now offers free testing for those concerned about HIV, hepatitis C, or hepatitis B, with all blood donations in the UK rigorously screened to minimise the risk of infection.

For more information or to request your free home test kit, visit the NHS hepatitis C web testing portal or speak to your GP. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to a healthier future.