Final answer:
In the US, a significant number of people suffer from chronic HCV infection, many undiagnosed. Approximately 75%-85% become chronic carriers. New treatments are highly effective, but chronic HCV can lead to severe complications including cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The number of people in the US with chronic HCV infection is substantial, as it is a condition that often goes undiagnosed. The Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has a mean incubation period of 45 days and is primarily transmitted through contact with infected blood. While some cases of HCV may resolve spontaneously or remain asymptomatic, approximately 75%-85% of individuals who contract the virus become chronic carriers. The highest risk of infection is associated with intravenous drug use and blood transfusions. It is also possible for the virus to spread through contact with contaminated personal items like toothbrushes and razors. In recent years, new medications have been developed that are highly effective in treating HCV, tailored to the specific genotype of the virus found in the infected individual.
Asymptomatic chronic carriers may still develop serious health complications over time such as cirrhosis and liver failure, and have an increased risk of developing liver cancer. Many cases of HCV are only discovered during routine blood work, emphasizing the importance of screenings, especially for those with known risk factors. The immune response to the virus is often weak, which allows it to survive in the host for many years, contributing to the chronic nature of the disease and increasing risks of serious liver damage and liver cancer decades after the initial infection.