Rapid results test for hepatitis C receives FDA approval

A new blood test has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to detect hepatitis C virus (HCV) in individuals aged 15 years and older. The OraQuick HCV Rapid Antibody Test will benefit individuals who are risk of developing the disease or are already showing symptoms of HCV.

The disease can be contracted through intravenous drug use or be passed from mother to her baby during childbirth, and without treatment can lead to serious liver complications, including inflammation, disease and cancer. If the disease becomes a chronic infection, approximately 60 to 70 out of 100 patients with HCV will be diagnosed with liver disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The test kit includes a strip that can show results in approximately 20 minutes. If an individual tests positive, it is recommended that he or she contact their physician.

Jeffrey Shuren, director of the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, stated that "getting faster treatment is an important public health step to control this dangerous disease."

Individuals who have unprotected sex could be putting themselves at a higher risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease. For people who are concerned or uncomfortable with making an appointment with their doctor, purchasing an online testing kit can be an option.