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Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (R-KY), Congressman Mike Honda (D-CA), Congressman Charlie Dent (R-PA), and Congressman Hank Johnson (D-GA) joined together to introduce H.R. 1101, the Viral Hepatitis Testing Act of 2015. 

The bipartisan legislation will expand the education of and testing for Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV).  The CDC estimates that as many as 75 percent of people currently infected are completely unaware they have the virus.  Lack of treatment can result in cirrhosis, end-stage liver disease, or liver cancer, however the disease can easily be diagnosed and treated.  H.R. 1101 encourages additional education amongst health professionals and the public on hepatitis and will increase care services for individuals with hepatitis B or C.

“Millions of Americans are infected with hepatitis B or C, which can lead to liver damage, liver failure, and cancer,” said Congressman Guthrie.  “Baby boomers are one of the demographics that are particularly impacted, spurring the CDC to encourage every person born between 1945 and 1965 to receive a one-time test.  H.R. 1101 will encourage diagnosis and education for at-risk populations, while conveying the seriousness of these viruses to the American public.”

“With approximately 5.3 million Americans living with chronic hepatitis, it is time for Congress to prioritize the hepatitis epidemic,” said Congressman Honda.  “This bipartisan bill is especially important for vulnerable communities, and communities of color.  One in 12 Asian-Americans has chronic hepatitis, and Asian Americans develop liver cancer at a much higher rate than other ethnic groups— yet few are aware of their risk factors.  Investing in viral hepatitis education, outreach, and linkage to care will help us achieve our goal of eliminating hepatitis B and C.  I look forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass this legislation.”

“Hepatitis C is a silent killer, but in this day and age, with the advances of medical technology and treatments, it shouldn’t be,” said Congressman Dent. “Congress can work together to help alleviate the suffering that this disease causes. I look forward to working with my colleagues, Congressmen Guthrie, Honda and Johnson on advancing this important legislation in the House.”

“Working together, we can raise awareness of this silent epidemic so that more people at risk can get tested and treated,” said Rep. Johnson, who announced in 2009 that he was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 1998. After completing successful treatments, Rep. Johnson is now free of the disease. “By supporting the Viral Hepatitis Testing Act of 2015, we can save lives and help others avoid the needless suffering and debilitating medical costs associated with treating this disease.”

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