Conference to discuss new treatments for hepatitis C

Recently, advancements have been made in treatment and screening options for hepatitis C, a sexually transmitted disease (STD). As a result, there are new anti-viral therapies to fight the infection, which affects the livers of more than 4 million Americans. In trials, the new drugs have been effective in curing the STD in many patients. 

Along with these new drugs, researchers also discovered places and practices that may be responsible for spreading hepatitis C. For example, nail salons and barbershops may be transmitting the infection to their customers through re-using instruments such a nail files, foot basins, razors, clippers and scissors.

According to scientists, people who work in these places may be unintentionally passing on the hepatitis B and C viruses if they do not properly clean their instruments. These findings will be presented at the American College of Gastroenterology's (ACG) 76th Annual Scientific Meeting. There, researchers will also discuss the impact that lifestyle factors such as drinking too much alcohol and smoking have on a person's chance of developing a variety of diseases.