HCV (Hepatitis C)

HCV has been called the hidden epidemic. It is the most common chronic blood borne infection in the US. Many people do not exhibit any symptoms and may never know it unless the get tested. Others experience flu-like symptoms and jaundice. With proper care people can live normal lives, although as a disease affecting the liver it can cause liver failure. Approximately 3.9 million persons in the US. are living with HCV. Possibly 16-25% of the 1 million people living with HIV may be co-infected with HCV. Although there is a vaccine for Hepatitis A & B, there is no vaccine for Hepatitis C.

Chinese Medicine & HCV

Protocols using acupuncture and herbs have been developed that have successfully helped HCV infected people to decrease symptoms, normalize or lower liver enzyme levels, and slow down the progression of liver disease. It may help you deal with the side effects when undergoing treatment Western treatments.

Living with Hepatitis C Project

The Living with Hepatitis C Project is designed to build peer support, and to create mindful community among people living with Hepatitis C virus as well as to enhance knowledge, improve well-being, and assist in health care decision making for people living with HCV. The facilitator is Mark Sorenson.

The workshop is free and is geared toward people living with HCV. We also encourage partners, family members and service providers to participate in the workshops. Please feel free to contact Alice Osiecki at (415) 861-4964 or quanyinthree@aol.comif you have any questions regarding this workshop.

The Hepatitis C Help Book

A guide to treatment options for Hepatitis C includes programs for self-care, nutritional and fitness plans, and a comprehensive Western and Chinese medical treatment program. It is available for purchase at QYHAC.

Hepatitis C Professional Certification Course

Misha Ruth Cohen, OMD, L.Ac. presents Hepatitis C Professional Certification Course (Continuing Education Training 33 CEUs ) for Licensed Acupuncturists every year. The most recent was September 9-11, 2005 and sponsored by Chicken Soup Chinese Medicine and QYHAC. Check back at this web site for next year’s course.

Hepatitis C Caring Ambassadors Program

Dedicated to helping people with hepatitis C equip themselves with all the facts and information about the illness and the various treatment options available. Visit their website at www.hepcchallenge.org