Health officials now say that more Americans die from Hepatitis C than from HIV.  Hepatitis C is an infectious disease contracted through contact with contaminated blood and, just like HIV, can be sexually transmitted.  The majority of people don’t even know they are infected with Hepatitis C until decades after they have contracted it. They usually find out during routine blood tests which will show liver damage caused by the virus throughout the years. About 3.2 million Americans have chronic hepatitis C, and baby boomers are most at risk for the disease.

Dr. John Ward, hepatitis chief at the CDC explained "One of every 33 baby boomers are living with hepatitis C infection…Most people will be surprised, because it's a silent epidemic." There was also more injectable drug use during the 60’s, 70’s and 80s and screening blood donors for hepatitis C didn’t take place until 1989. The take away message: We need to improve health screening and care for Hepatitis C.

Carla Snuggs is a freelance writer for Endless Beauty.