Let’s help eliminate hepatitis C for good
A politician led a debate in the Scottish Parliament where he said he looked forward to a future where hepatitis C is eliminated.
Tom Arthur, MSP for Renfrewshire South, was speaking following publication of a report by The Hepatitis C Trust.
Mr Arthur highlighted the importance of testing and urged people concerned to seek support and not to worry in silence.
Commenting after the debate, Mr Arthur said: “I’m proud of the progress that has been made in tackling hepatitis C. We must now look ahead to a future where hepatitis C is no longer a public health concern for people across Scotland.
“Eliminating a public health issue that disproportionately affects some of the poorest and most marginalised groups in our society is an extraordinary and eminently achievable opportunity which should be seized with both hands.”
An estimated 37,000 people in Scotland are infected with hepatitis C, with approximately 40 per cent remaining undiagnosed.
Hepatitis C is preventable, treatable and curable, but can cause fatal cirrhosis and liver cancer if left untreated.
It is predominantly spread through the sharing of unsterilized equipment to inject recreational drugs. Paisley pensioners have the chance to get savvy with the latest gadgets and gizmos.
ROAR-Connections for Life is a local organisation that provides a range of services for the elderly.
One of their most forwardthinking groups is the Tablets and Ipads Beginners Class.
Running over six weeks for two hours per week, the sessions are fun, social and run at a slower pace with lots of opportunities to ask questions.
Participants can bring their own tablets or borrow one from the centre in Glasgow Road.
A spokesperson from ROAR said:“Tablets and iPads are a great way to get on the internet, stay in contact with friends and family, research family history and hobbies, access services and shop for bargains.
“We have some new classes running soon.
“Come and join in and find out more.”
If you or someone you know would be interested in joining the class contact Grant on 0141 889 7481 or email grant@ roarforlife.org
For more information visit www.roarforlife.org