Find Hepatitis test
in Bell, CA.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Anyone who is sexually active, shares needles, or comes into contact with infected blood should consider getting tested for hepatitis. This includes individuals who have had unprotected sex, those with multiple sexual partners, and people who have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). According to the CDC, people born between 1945 and 1965, commonly known as baby boomers, are also at a higher risk and should get tested for hepatitis C, as they are five times more likely to be infected.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial as it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, including liver damage, liver cancer, and even death. Early detection can help prevent these complications and allow for effective treatment. Moreover, those who are unaware of their infection can unknowingly transmit the virus to others. According to the CDC, an estimated 2.4 million people in the United States are living with hepatitis C, and many of them are unaware of their infection.

Hepatitis testing options in Bell, CA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Urgent care and walk-in clinics are a convenient option for hepatitis testing. These facilities often offer same-day appointments and shorter wait times. Carbon Health Urgent Care in nearby Whittier, CA, is highly rated and known for its short wait times and friendly staff.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers are another reliable option for hepatitis testing. They can provide a comprehensive health check and guide you through the testing process. AME Medical Group in Lynwood, CA, is highly rated and provides a range of healthcare services.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers often offer free or low-cost hepatitis testing, making it accessible to those with limited resources. These centers are typically staffed by healthcare professionals who are experienced in dealing with STIs.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits provide another convenient option for hepatitis testing. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Bell

While specific data for Bell, CA, is not readily available, Los Angeles County, where Bell is located, has seen a significant increase in hepatitis cases over the past few years. According to the CDC, Los Angeles County reported over 2,500 cases of hepatitis C in 2018 alone. This trend is consistent with national data, which shows a rise in hepatitis cases across the country.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Bell

Risk factors for hepatitis in Bell are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex, sharing needles, and contact with infected blood. Other factors that may contribute to the prevalence of hepatitis in the area include the presence of other STIs, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis.

Other STDs in Bell

In addition to hepatitis, other STIs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in the Bell area. These infections often co-occur, and individuals who are at risk for one STI are typically at risk for others as well. Therefore, comprehensive STI testing is recommended for those who are sexually active, particularly those with multiple partners or who engage in unprotected sex. Testing can be done at any of the 51 nearby testing locations, with appointments easily booked through Solv’s website and mobile app.