Find Hepatitis test
in Huntersville, NC.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Hepatitis, a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver, is a significant health concern. In particular, hepatitis B and C can lead to chronic disease and are the most common cause of liver cirrhosis and cancer. According to the CDC, everyone should be tested for hepatitis C at least once in their lifetime, especially those born between 1945 and 1965. Additionally, individuals with certain risk factors such as intravenous drug use, receipt of donated blood before 1992, or long-term kidney dialysis should also be tested. For hepatitis B, testing is recommended for people born in countries with high rates of hepatitis B, people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, and others at high risk.

Importance of getting tested

Early detection of hepatitis is crucial for effective treatment and preventing the spread of the disease. Chronic hepatitis can lead to serious health problems like liver cancer, so early diagnosis and treatment can save lives. Furthermore, many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms until the later stages of the disease, so regular testing is essential for those at risk.

Hepatitis testing options in Huntersville, NC:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics provide convenient, same-day hepatitis testing. Exceptional Lab Solutions in Huntersville and AFC Urgent Care in nearby Mooresville and Charlotte offer these services. You can book same-day and next-day appointments through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are a reliable source for hepatitis testing and ongoing care. If you have a primary care provider, consider discussing your risk factors and potential need for a hepatitis test.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are community health centers in and around Huntersville that offer free or low-cost hepatitis testing, a vital resource for uninsured or underinsured individuals.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for hepatitis are available and offer a private and convenient option. These kits require a small blood sample, sent to a lab, with results available online within a few days.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Huntersville

While specific data for Huntersville is not readily available, Cabarrus County, where Huntersville is located, has seen a steady increase in hepatitis cases, mirroring national trends. According to the CDC, North Carolina has a higher rate of hepatitis C compared to the national average.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Huntersville

Risk factors for hepatitis in Huntersville are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include intravenous drug use, unprotected sex, travel to countries with high hepatitis prevalence, and certain medical conditions.

Other STDs in Huntersville

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also present in Huntersville. It's crucial to get tested if you're at risk, as many STDs can be asymptomatic. Testing locations like Exceptional Lab Solutions and AFC Urgent Care also provide testing for these STDs.