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The American Liver Foundation (ALF), a national nonprofit organization that provides education, advocacy and research on behalf of the 30 million Americans affected by liver disease, today thanked Steven Tyler, lead singer of Aerosmith, for his recent announcement that he has been battling hepatitis C, a dangerous liver disease that claims 8,000 - 10,000 lives a year in the United States. "Mr. Tyler has done something very commendable," said Fred Thompson, president and CEO of the American Liver Foundation. "By speaking out about his personal struggle with hepatitis C, he helps draw attention to a terrible disease that affects almost 4 million Americans. We need more brave people to speak out about this terrible disease that is far too often ignored. It is estimated that, for the years 2010-2019, the direct and indirect costs of hepatitis C to the U.S. health care system will be $85 billion. More proof of how liver disease affects all Americans." Hepatitis C is the most common blood-borne infection in the United States. "There are 36,000 new cases of hepatitis C in the U.S. each year," said Thompson. "But many of those infected have no idea they are sick because the disease doesn't have any specific symptoms. If Mr. Tyler's action can motivate more people to get the simple blood test necessary to screen for the disease, he will have improved the lives of thousands." Facts about hepatitis C -- Hepatitis C is the most common chronic blood borne infection in the United States. -- The World Health Organization has estimated that roughly 3% of the world population has been infected with the hepatitis C virus and that there are more than 170 million chronic carriers who are at risk of developing liver cirrhosis and/or liver cancer. -- Hepatitis C is four time more infectious than the AIDS virus. -- Hepatitis C turns into a chronic disease for over 70 percent of those infected. -- If not treated, hepatitis C can cause cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure and death. -- Chronic hepatitis C is the leading indication for adult liver transplantation in the U.S. About the American Liver Foundation The American Liver Foundation is the nation's leading nonprofit organization promoting liver health and disease prevention. ALF provides research, education and advocacy for those affected by liver-related diseases including hepatitis. Please visit the American Liver Foundation's Web site at http://www.liverfoundation.org
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American Liver Foundationwww.liverfoundation.org
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