Nonprofit officials include HIV and hepatitis treatment in prevention initiative

As part of the recent plans implemented in Washington, DC to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, representatives of the National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable (NVHR) have announced their support of the National HIV/AIDS strategy. This initiative has been reported to include potential improvements to available treatments for patients who have contracted HIV and hepatitis B or C.

With the assistance of policymakers and physicians, roundtable administrators look to help advance current sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) care services, including tests that can detect sooner if a patient has HIV or hepatitis, increase access to STD clinics.

Federal officials and healthcare professionals hope the initiative will lower the risk of developing liver cancer, cirrhosis and liver failure, which are linked to hepatitis B and C. By improving virus screening, expenses related to treating patients with these health complications would also decrease.

Lorren Sandt, an executive director of the NVHR, stated that "[we] welcome the administration's recognition of the need for better care coordination for individuals afflicted with HIV/AIDS." She added that "just like yesterday's HIV/AIDS announcement, the viral hepatitis plague demands leadership from the highest levels of the federal government."

While government initiatives may lead to advancements in STD prevention and detection, people who are concerned about their health can also take steps towards protecting themselves. Individuals who are uncomfortable with making a doctor's appointment can purchase at-home kits and test themselves regularly.