Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to the hepatitis virus should consider getting tested. This includes individuals who have engaged in unprotected sex, shared needles during drug use, or have been in close contact with someone who has hepatitis. Additionally, those who have traveled to areas with high rates of hepatitis, have been incarcerated, or have had a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992 should also consider getting tested. According to the CDC, baby boomers (born between 1945 and 1965) are also at a higher risk and should get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial as it can lead to serious health complications if left untreated, including liver disease, liver cancer, and cirrhosis. Early detection can help prevent these health complications and can also help prevent the spread of the virus to others.

Hepatitis testing options in Lancaster, OH:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are an accessible option for hepatitis testing in Lancaster, OH. For instance, Newark Valley Urgent Care in nearby Newark, OH, and Westar Urgent Care in Westerville, OH, are highly rated with short wait times and friendly staff. You can book same-day or next-day appointments at these locations through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers can also provide hepatitis testing. They can offer a comprehensive evaluation of your health and discuss any concerns you may have.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing and community health centers in Lancaster, OH, and surrounding areas also offer hepatitis testing. These centers provide testing at no cost or a reduced cost, making it a more accessible option for many individuals.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits are another option for hepatitis testing. These kits can be ordered online and used in the privacy of your own home. They provide a convenient and confidential way to get tested.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Lancaster

While specific data for Lancaster, OH is not readily available, according to the CDC, Ohio has seen a significant increase in hepatitis cases in recent years. This trend is similar to the national trend, with the number of cases increasing across the country.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Lancaster

Risk factors for hepatitis in Lancaster, OH, are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex, drug use, and close contact with someone who has hepatitis. Other risk factors include having a blood transfusion or organ transplant before 1992, being born between 1945 and 1965, and traveling to areas with high rates of hepatitis.

Other STDs in Lancaster

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Lancaster, OH. As with hepatitis, these STDs can lead to serious health complications if left untreated. Getting tested regularly for these STDs is crucial for maintaining good health.

Sources

Solv has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.