Physicians anticipate that more people in this country will die from Hepatitis C than will die from AIDS. An estimated 8,000 to 10,000 people will die annually, due to Hepatitis C. That number is expected to triple over the next few years. For most women, that assertion is a surprise.

Health care professionals believe that only 5% of those infected are aware they have the virus. The symptoms of the virus are vague and easily mistaken for flu. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, nausea, liver pain, and depression. Of the 5% who are aware of the infection, only 2% are receiving treatment.

You could be at risk for this disease if you had:

• Blood transfusions or transplants prior to 1992
• C-Section delivery prior to 1992
• Intravenous drug use - even once
• Received clotting factors prior to 1987
• Shared razors, toothbrushes or anything that contained blood-product with an infected individual
• If your mother was infected prior to your birth
• Been sexually active or infected with a STD
• Used tattooing or piercing with needles used by an infected individual

Talk to your health care provider about this killer. Find out what is being done to be sure you do not become a victim of this deadly disease.