Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare: Hepatitis C in Finland is primarily linked to intravenous drug use
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has published new information on the most common causes of hepatitis C infections in Finland. According to a recent report, the majority of hepatitis C cases in the country are linked to the use of intravenous drugs.
Hepatitis C is a viral liver disease that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems, such as liver damage. According to THL, infections spread particularly when drug users share the same injection equipment, such as needles or syringes.
The agency emphasizes that effective health services and adequate needle exchange programs are needed to prevent infections. The goal is to reduce the spread of the virus among people who use drugs and to provide help to those who have already been infected.
In Finland, the treatment of hepatitis C has developed significantly in recent years, and current medications are highly effective. THL reminds that early diagnosis and access to treatment are key to preventing the disease from progressing and causing long-term health complications.