Hepatitis C is a contagious liver disease that results from infection with the hepatitis C virus, which can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. Yet most people don’t know that they are infected – particularly baby boomers. In fact, according to the most recent data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), about one in 33 baby boomers are living with the disease. But, there is hope.

Winthrop-University Hospital’s Perspectives in Health series will offer a free seminar for the public, “Hepatitis C: New Drugs, New Hope,” on Tuesday, March 13, 2012, at 7:00 PM. The program will be held at Winthrop’s Community Outreach Center, located at 101 Mineola Boulevard at the corner of Second Street in Mineola.

Peter F. Malet, MD, Director of the Center for Liver Diseases at Winthrop, will provide an overview of the disease, highlighting the effective curative treatments that are available now, and the new ones being developed. Dr. Malet will also explain risk factors for the disease, emphasizing the importance of screening through a simple blood test.

Attendees are asked to arrive at 6:45 PM for registration. Parking and the entrance are available in the rear of the building. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. To reserve a space, please call (516) 663-8300.

For information on other programs at the Hospital, please call 1-866-WINTHROP.