You baby boomers represent an important part of the American population. People born in the USA between 1946 and 1964, characterized by a significant increase in the birth rate after the end of the Second World War.
See too: 15 Diseases that allow extra FGTS withdrawal
see more
Secret of youth? Researchers reveal how to reverse…
The "powers" of porridge: check out the benefits of oats in…
Who are the baby boomers?
This generation got its name due to this demographic boom that occurred in the United States during this period. As this generation ages, specific health-related challenges arise, including the need to raise awareness among the American population about sexually transmitted diseases.
But don't think that only this generation is at risk. All age groups can get STDs, which is why regular checkups are essential to ensure your sexual health.
Rising cases of Hepatitis C among Americans
A study published in the Annals of Emergency Medicine, a monthly American medical journal, revealed the alarming rate of hepatitis C among baby boomers. Researchers tested over 500 individuals and found that 13.5% of them were infected, more than double expectations.
Hepatitis C is highly curable, but many people don't realize they're infected until it's too late. Hence, it is considered a sneaky disease as it can remain dormant for decades.
Cirrhosis, liver disease and liver cancer are just a few of the complications that can develop over time, causing severe liver damage. It is estimated that between 5 and 20 positive patients out of 100 may develop cirrhosis, and that between 1 and 5 of these patients, unfortunately, will die.
In the past, in the US, hepatitis C was screened mainly in drug users, HIV patients and those who received blood transfusions. blood before 1992. However, infection rates there are now on the rise among baby boomers, who used to engage in high-risk behaviors.
Many of these individuals changed their behavior but never got tested for hepatitis C, which unfortunately is not the only STD on the rise among older Americans.
Get tested for STDs regularly and take care of your health
Fortunately, new therapies are available to halt the progression of the disease and achieve a cure, and a simple blood test can make all the difference.
In the United States there is no universal public health system, and testing for STDs is not covered by health plans and insurance. The good news for Americans is that it is being widely distributed to clinics and medical centers where it is available.
Here in Brazil, the Unified Health System (SUS) provides free HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B and C testing. Just look for a basic health unit (UBS) of the public network or the Testing and Counseling Centers (CTA).
So if it's been a long time since your last STD test, it's time to act! Protecting your health is vital at all ages, so don't delay, go public and get tested for hepatitis C and other STDs right now.
