Using is no barrier to treatment
T
roy has been on hepatitis C treatment for three months, and he is really glad he decided to do it. He had a response within the first month, his blood test result at 12 weeks was excellent, and he is looking forward to a new life free of hepatitis C. It hadn’t always been easy. “I asked about treatment four years ago, and they said they wouldn’t waste $30,000 on someone who was still using,” he said. However, now it’s different. Troy said the fact that he was still using was no barrier to accessing treatment. The treatment staff didn’t give him any hassles around his drug use. “I’m really careful these days—only use my own clean equipment. Back then, three or four of us would share spoons and other gear. “But I’m lucky in a way because I was diagnosed early. I reckon it was about five or six years after I contracted it. Also, I’m a genotype 3, which responds well to pegylatedInterferon and ribavirin. Troy started treatment after much encouragement from his doctor. “I had watched a friend die from liver cancer. That was the extra push I needed to make the decision,” he added.
“At first I was a bit concerned about side effects, but I haven’t had any bad ones... a bit of tiredness, loss of appetite, that’s all.” Troy expects to clear the virus and hopes to build new relationships unencumbered by hepatitis C. “My last relationship broke up because of hep C,” he said. “It shouldn’t be a barrier to personal relationships but, sadly, it happens.” Troy said he’s telling his friends all about his treatment and encouraging them to consider it too. “You may think you’re fine now but wait till you get cirrhosis,” he said. “That’s what may be down the track for you.” Troy said it’s mainly the side effects stopping people from going on treatment. “I would encourage people to think again,” he added.” Treatment may be tough but it’s totally worth it.” Cecilia Lim
SEPTEMBER 2013 • HEPATITIS SA COMMUNITY NEWS •
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Photo CC Renato Pequito [flickr.com/photos/kyanos_aum]
Troy’s Treatment