According to the CDC (http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hepatitis/c/fact.htm), hepatitis C infection affects approximately 3.9 million Americans and unfortunately, 2.7 million (69%) of these individuals are chronically infected. For patients diagnosed with hepatitis C virus (HCV), 55 to 85% of individuals will exhibit chronic infection and 1 to 5% may die. In fact, hepatitis C is the leading indication for liver transplantation. Gastroenterology and hepatology nurses play a key role in educating and supporting these individuals during their illness, recovery, and adjustment to this chronic condition. Gastroenterology Nursing is pleased to offer this supplement featuring articles authored by highly regarded nursing experts in the area of hepatitis C. These experts have generously shared their experiences and recommendations for supporting this special patient population.
We are also pleased to provide continuing education for these articles. Our goal with this supplement is to provide a source of information that will help you manage patients with hepatitis C virus. We hope we accomplished what we set out to do.