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Millions more Native Americans should be getting tested for Hepatitis C. That’s according to new recommendations by the Indian Health Service. IHS greatly expanded its recommendation for the age groups at risk of the potentially fatal infection. Previously, IHS deferred to the recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that those born before 1965 get tested. The new recommendations reflect growing concern that Hepatitis C mortality rates for Native Americans are twice the national average. We’ll talk with health professionals who say catching infections earlier gives a better chance of treating and even curing the disease.
Guests:
Brigg Reilley – Epidemiologist for the Northwest Portland Area Indian Health Board who works with the Indian Health Service national Hepatitis C program
Brad Moran (Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa) – chief of pharmacy for the Fort Peck Service Unit
Break 1 Music: Nose Flute Dub (song) Paula Fuga (artist) Lilikoi (album)
Break 2 Music: Round Dance (song) High Noon (artist) Generations (album)
