Thousands Still Getting Hep C in England
Thousands of people are still being diagnosed with the severe liver disease hepatitis C in England despite a major awareness campaign, figures show.
Data from the Health Protection Agency shows the number newly diagnosed in 2005 was 7,580, down 400 from 2004. Hepatitis C, which is contracted through infected blood, can cause cirrhosis, liver failure or cancer. There is concern the 4,855 people now living with cirrhosis or serious liver failure in 2005 could double by 2015.