What is the requirement for those recommended for one-time screening for hepatitis C?

Individuals recommended for one-time screening for hepatitis C include adults born between 1945 and 1965 due to the higher prevalence rates of the virus within this age cohort. This recommendation is informed by research indicating that many people in this birth range were infected during the time when blood screening for hepatitis C was not readily available, leading to increased rates of undiagnosed infection.

This age group has been identified as having a significant burden of hepatitis C, and screening identifies those who may benefit from counseling and treatment, ultimately helping to reduce the disease's morbidity and mortality. The recommendation for one-time testing is particularly aimed at early detection and prevention of long-term complications associated with chronic hepatitis C infection.

Other factors and demographics, such as older age (above 50), chronic illnesses, or recent surgeries, do not alone justify the need for screening, as they do not correlate as strongly with the prevalence of hepatitis C as the specified birth years.