Hepatitis C is more likely to cause liver cancer than other disorders

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) come with a variety of dangerous symptoms ranging from outbreaks of sores, to organ complications, to death. Many people underestimate the potential consequences that can come from unprotected sex, especially since 80 percent of STDs do not have visible markers. Recently, researchers from Oxford University in the UK discovered that the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is more likely to lead to liver cancer than non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

NAFLD is the most common cause of liver disease worldwide, yet scientists have discovered that HCV carries a higher risk of liver cancer, highlighting the seriousness of this STD. Scientists also mentioned in their study that HCV is the leading reason for liver transplants, which is a complicated procedure that can require years of waiting for a donor.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that although the official number of cases of HCV is not that high, it was estimated that in 2007 there were 17,000 people with the disease, many of whom were not reporting it to their doctor.

This statistic shows that there may be people who have this infection and are either unaware of it or are not disclosing the information with medical professionals. This is one of the many reasons why it's important to get tested regularly.