Find Hepatitis test
in Torrance, CA.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone who has been exposed to blood or body fluids of an infected person should get tested for hepatitis. This includes healthcare workers, people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, and people with multiple sex partners. Additionally, individuals who have been incarcerated, those born to a hepatitis B positive mother, and anyone traveling to regions with high rates of hepatitis should also consider getting tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps in early detection, which can prevent the disease from progressing to severe liver disease or liver cancer. Secondly, it allows for timely treatment, reducing the risk of transmission to others. According to the CDC, many people with hepatitis do not know they are infected, making testing even more critical.

Hepatitis testing options in Torrance, CA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are several urgent care and walk-in clinics in Torrance that offer hepatitis testing. For instance, Carbon Health in nearby Redondo Beach is a highly-rated clinic with a short wait time. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at this clinic through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Torrance also offer hepatitis testing. If you already have a primary care provider, you can ask them about getting tested during your next visit.

Free STD testing and community health centers

There are also free STD testing centers and community health centers in Torrance that provide hepatitis testing. These centers can be a good option for those without insurance or those who cannot afford the cost of testing.

At-home testing

At-home testing is another option for those who prefer the convenience and privacy of testing at home. There are several at-home testing kits available online, which can be mailed to your home with instructions on how to collect and send back the sample.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Torrance

While specific data on the prevalence of hepatitis in Torrance is not readily available, Los Angeles County, where Torrance is located, has seen a steady increase in hepatitis cases over the past few years, according to the CDC. This trend mirrors the national trend, where hepatitis cases have been on the rise.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Torrance

Risk factors for hepatitis in Torrance are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex, sharing needles or other drug equipment, and exposure to infected blood or body fluids. Certain populations, such as men who have sex with men and people who inject drugs, are at a higher risk.

Other STDs in Torrance

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Torrance. As with hepatitis, these STDs can be tested at local urgent care centers, primary care providers, community health centers, and at-home testing services. It's important to get tested regularly if you are at risk for these STDs.