NEWEST CURES FOR HEP C?

QUESTION FOR DR. D:
I HEARD THERE IS NOW A TREATMENT TO CURE HEP C, IS THIS TRUE?
LAST I HEARD ABOUT 5 YEARS AGO ONLY AVAILABLE WAS THE INTERFERON W/REBETRON TREATMENT WHICH DIDN'T HAVE A VERY GOOD CURE RATE?!
THANKS ~ JULIE

[Douglas Dieterich, MD]

There has been a cure for HCV since 1991. The response rates have increased steadily from about 6% then to about 60% now. The new drugs that we are using in clinical trials have increased that number to about 70% so maybe that is what you are hearing. The odds are getting better but you are getting older so go get evaluated for treatment now! DTD

[globalgemba]

The answer to your question is not a simple one.  There is no guaranteed cure in fact depending on the stage and genotype you have, the odds are not in your favor and the side effects are worth checking into.  Might want to keep an eye on a laser developed @ AZSU that zaps bacteria & viruses w/o harming surrounding tissue.  It MIGHT be in hospitals in the next couple of yrs.  Get a really good Dr that you can "work with" and do lots of research and be proactive.  A healthy lifestyle, positive attitude, diet and exercise don't hurt either.  Best of Luck!