A Question for Dr. Young

[Raven]

Dr. Young,

As you already probably know, I have been exposed to the virus of Hepatitis C and my blood is now infected with it.

I find that many of those who might have gotten transfusions before '85 might have been exposed to it. Only God knows how many times I have had to have transfusions during my life but I also think that many here might have the same risk as I did. I hope none of them have though.

My question is this; There are trials and studies being done to those who have the virus now. Noticed that the trials forum here is for SCI only but I wondered if I posted some information on how it is acquired and the new trials that are being done, would it be acceptable. If it is not, should I put it here on the general forum. I feel that it is very important for us all to know more about it. It is now also considered a disability because of the symptoms some people might have and the discrimination or way people look upon those who have acquired it.

Please tell me what you would suggest that I should do. http://sci.rutgers.edu/forum/images/smilies/confused.gif

Raven

[Wise Young]

Raven,

There are indeed many clinical trials being done on hepatitis. I am of course not very knowledgeable about these.

http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct/gui/c/w1r/action/SearchAction?JServSessionIdzone_ct=0tdlb99em1&Term=hepatitis

Let me think about the posting of hepatitis trials in the Trials Forum. I had originally set it up as a depository of clinical trial information for spinal cord injury... In the process, I expanded the definition of this to include not only biological treatments but surgical treatments that are being offered, as well as multiple sclerosis therapies that I though might be relevant. I am worried that the Trials Forum is already diluted and adding hepatitis and other conditions would be too much.

For the time being, can I suggest that you post it on the Care forum where people can discuss it? Actually, I would be very interested to know how many people with spinal cord injury also have hepatitis. I think that hepatitis falls under health and care issues, in the same way that bladder and bowel care, pancreatitis, gall bladder stones, decubiti, sweating, etc. are now being discussed.

Wise.

[Raven]

Thank you Dr. Young. I wanted to be sure where it could be posted since I figured it is not SCI but it could affect just about anyone of us too.

It is great to know that we can discuss this subject since it is something not much is known about.

I will do as you suggested.

Again thank you for the help and support in these forums.

Raven