Find Hepatitis test
in Decatur, GA.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Hepatitis, a disease that inflames the liver, can be contracted by anyone, but certain individuals are at a higher risk. Those who should consider getting tested for hepatitis include individuals who have been exposed to blood or body fluids of an infected person, have shared needles or other drug paraphernalia, have had unprotected sex with multiple partners, or have traveled to areas with high rates of hepatitis. According to the CDC, people born from 1945 to 1965, also known as baby boomers, are five times more likely to have hepatitis C and should get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial because it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated, including liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death. Early detection through testing allows for prompt treatment, reducing the risk of these severe complications. Furthermore, knowing your hepatitis status can help prevent the spread of the disease to others.

Hepatitis testing options in Decatur, GA:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

Decatur residents have access to several urgent care and walk-in clinics for hepatitis testing. Atlanta Urgent Care, for instance, located at 2738 Clairmont Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329, is a highly-rated option with a 4.78 rating based on 701 reviews. You can book same-day and next-day testing appointments at this location through Solv’s website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Decatur also offer hepatitis testing. It's advisable to discuss your risk factors with your primary care physician, who can then recommend the appropriate tests.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Free STD testing and community health centers in Decatur also provide hepatitis testing. These centers are an excellent resource for individuals who may not have health insurance or who prefer a more community-centered approach to healthcare.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for hepatitis are available for those who prefer the convenience and privacy of home testing. These kits can be ordered online, used at home, and then sent back to a lab for analysis.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Decatur

While specific data for Decatur is not readily available, DeKalb County, where Decatur is located, has seen a steady increase in hepatitis cases over the years, mirroring national trends. According to the CDC, the rise in hepatitis cases is largely linked to the ongoing opioid epidemic, as the disease can be spread through the sharing of needles.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Decatur

Risk factors for hepatitis in Decatur include unprotected sex, intravenous drug use, and close contact with someone who has the disease. The ongoing opioid crisis in the area may increase the risk of hepatitis due to needle sharing among drug users.

Other STDs in Decatur

Besides hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Decatur. As with hepatitis, these STDs can be tested for at the 27 nearby testing locations, including urgent care centers and medical laboratories. Regular testing is recommended for those with risk factors to ensure early detection and treatment.