How blood transfusions for sickle cell may have impacted hepatitis C rates among Black Americans

A 2020 study found that Black Americans accounted for up to 23% of diagnosed hepatitis C in the US. In previous decades, donated blood was not screened for hepatitis C, and this could have negatively impacted transfusions for sickle cell anemia.

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Hey, Dr. McCutchen. How important is diversity when it comes to clinical trials for hepatitis C medication? [MUSIC PLAYING]

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The US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health found that in 2018, African-Americans were nearly twice as likely to die from

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hepatitis C compared to white people. In a 2020 study found that Black Americans accounted for up to 23% of diagnosed hepatitis C

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in the United States. Why? It may have something to do with blood transfusions and the treatment of sickle cell disease.

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Black Americans are more likely to have sickle cell disease, an inherited blood disorder that can be treated in part

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with blood transfusions. You see, if you donate blood today, there is a required screening to check for diseases prior

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to a transfusion. However, just 30 years ago, screenings for donating blood were non-existent.

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Hepatitis C is spread through the blood, such as through blood transfusions, sharing of needles, and getting a tattoo or body piercing

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with an infected needle. But symptoms don't develop immediately. So not long ago, someone could have had a hepatitis C

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infection, not know it, and donate blood and pass the virus on to someone seeking a blood transfusion for sickle cell.

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Thankfully, since 1992, diseases are rarely transmitted through blood transfusions due to mandatory screenings.

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However, the impact of the sickle cell blood transfusions before 1992 are still affecting Black Americans today

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at a disproportionate rate. You see, if a mother has hepatitis C virus, she can pass it on to her unborn child.

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This leads to an unfortunate cycle of transmitting the virus through generations. The Black population in America is

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less likely to have a sustained viral response to treatment. In addition, they are more likely to be deemed

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ineligible to receive treatment for their hepatitis C infections as opposed to their racial counterparts.

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Although the clinical evidence is not clear as to why this population is more often deemed ineligible for treatment of hepatitis C,

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though it could be due to a variety of factors, including limited representation in clinical trials.

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Hepatitis C can be life threatening, and if you haven't already, it is recommended you get screened for it.

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If you're over 18 the CDC recommends a screening, at least once in your life for all adults up to age 79.

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Talk to your health care provider to learn more. [MUSIC PLAYING]