Introducing the Hepatitis C Team at SCHC

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September 17, 2024

Written By By Amy Stephenson, Manager of Community Health Teams

Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities (SCHC) is proud to announce the formation of a new Hepatitis C team dedicated to serving the Scarborough community. This initiative is a crucial step towards helping Canada meet the World Health Organization’s goal of eliminating hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

But What Exactly is Hepatitis C?

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver, potentially leading to severe liver damage, including cirrhosis and an increased risk of liver cancer if left untreated. Unlike Hepatitis A and B, there is currently no vaccine for Hepatitis C. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood, often through shared needles or unsanitary medical procedures.

One of the biggest challenges with Hepatitis C is its often subtle onset. Many people experience mild or no symptoms at all—such as fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or jaundice—making it easy to overlook or attribute to other causes. As a result, approximately half of those infected with Hepatitis C are unaware of their condition, missing the opportunity for early diagnosis and treatment.

However, there is good news. Treatment for Hepatitis C has advanced significantly, with direct-acting antivirals now offering a 95% cure rate. These treatments, which take just 8 to 12 weeks, have minimal side effects compared to the harsh treatments available in the 1980s.

How Will our Team Contribute to its Eradication?

At SCHC, our Hepatitis C team is committed to increasing access to testing, treatment, and support for those affected by the virus. We are actively offering community-based screening and providing comprehensive support and treatment services for those who test positive.

As a newly established team, we are beginning by engaging with the community to better understand their needs and perceptions regarding Hepatitis C. Initial responses have ranged from “Hep what?” to “Can I get tested today?” As we continue to build partnerships and relationships, we will be expanding our educational outreach and testing services across various sites in the community.

If you would like more information or are interested in hosting a testing event, please reach out to us at ambassador@schcontario.ca.