Hepatitis B & C Testing in Medellín: Safeguard Your Liver
Hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) are serious liver infections that can lead to long-term damage like cirrhosis and cancer. Although not always discussed openly, they remain a significant health risk in Colombia. In Medellín specifically, risky exposure, travel, or even routine medical procedures can put residents and visitors at risk.
At Rapid Test Medellín (RTM), we prioritize your liver health. We offer discreet, same-day testing for hepatitis B and C with certified laboratory accuracy and English-speaking support.
Hepatitis B & C in Medellín: The Real Numbers
In a broad Colombian study, the prevalence of HBV was 0.15% and HCV was 0.27% in the general population. Among high-risk groups like MSM, homeless individuals, and injection drug users, rates rose dramatically. For example, HCV prevalence reached 45.5% among drug users. (Source)
A Medellín population-based study revealed an active HBV infection rate of 2.1% and an HBV–HIV co-infection rate of 38.6%. (Source)
Nationally, the prevalence of chronic HBV is 0.59%, while chronic HCV is 0.6%. (Source)
These numbers underscore that while the general population risk may appear low, certain local and vulnerable groups face very high risk. Liver disease often develops silently—making testing critical for prevention.
Why Hepatitis Testing Matters
Both HBV and HCV can progress quietly for years before symptoms appear.
Chronic infections significantly increase the risk of liver cancer, cirrhosis, and liver failure.
Early diagnosis enables timely treatment, dramatically improving long-term health outcomes.
Knowing your status also prevents unknowingly passing the virus to partners or via childbirth.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Hepatitis B & C
Symptoms often don't appear until the liver is significantly damaged. Common signs include:
Early symptoms (acute phase): Fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine, jaundice.
Chronic infection: Often asymptomatic until liver damage becomes serious—then symptoms can include weight loss, easy bruising, fluid buildup (ascites), confusion, or bleeding from varices.
Because symptoms can be vague or absent, the only way to know your status is through reliable testing.
How We Test You at Rapid Test Medellín
We make hepatitis testing straightforward and private:
Blood tests for both HBV and HCV—detect active or past infections.
Same-day sample collection—a trained nurse visits your home, hotel, or our private clinic for quick, discreet testing. No waiting rooms, no guesswork.
Lab-certified results—all samples are analyzed in accredited Colombian labs to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Result timelines:
HBV (surface antigen + antibodies): available same day or within 24 hours.
HCV (antibody/PCR): same day for antibody screens; PCR confirmatory tests may take 2–3 days.
Treatment Options in Medellín
Hepatitis B:
Many cases are manageable with antivirals like tenofovir or interferon, especially if caught early.
Ongoing monitoring includes checkups and liver scans to prevent progression to cirrhosis or cancer.
Hepatitis C:
Remarkably, over 95% of chronic HCV cases can be cured with direct-acting antivirals such as sofosbuvir and simeprevir.
If the virus has progressed to advanced liver disease, a transplant may be required, but this is rare if diagnosed early.
Why early diagnosis matters: Early treatment can reverse liver damage, prevent complications, and significantly extend life expectancy.
Why Choose Rapid Test Medellín?
Confidential & discreet: We bring the test to you—without public clinics or crowded labs.
English support: All communication and results delivered in clear English (or Spanish on request).
Certified lab accuracy: Lab-grade testing that you can trust.
Doctor referrals: If positive, we connect you with English-speaking doctors in Medellín who specialize in hepatitis management.
Convenient and private: Ideal for travelers, expats, and locals who want quality care without fuzzy logistics.
Special Note for Expats & Travelers
Hepatitis B can be sexually transmitted—but also occurs via tattoos, medical procedures, or childbirth.
Vaccination is effective: Ask your doctor if you're unvaccinated or unsure of your status.
No vaccine exists yet for HCV, making testing and early treatment even more critical.
Who Should Consider Testing?
Get tested if you have:
Unprotected sex, especially with new or multiple partners
A history of tattoos, piercings, or medical procedures without sterile technique
Injected drugs or shared needles
A family history of liver disease
Been born to a mother from a high-risk region or with unknown vaccination status
Get Peace of Mind—Schedule Your Test Now
If you're in Medellín and want clarity on your liver health, Rapid Test Medellín makes it easy. Trust us to deliver fast, accurate testing with privacy and support.
👉 Schedule your hepatitis B & C test in Medellín today to safeguard your liver and your future.
