American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What age group should undergo initial screening for HCV according to guidelines?

1. Individuals under 30

2. Individuals 30-40

3. Individuals 40-60

4. Individuals 1945-1965

The correct answer is: Individuals 1945-1965

Initial screening for Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is recommended for individuals born between 1945 and 1965, often referred to as the "baby boomer" cohort. This age group is prioritized for screening due to the higher prevalence of HCV infection observed within this population. The rationale behind this specific recommendation stems from epidemiological studies indicating that individuals in this cohort have historically been at an increased risk for HCV infection, largely due to factors such as prior medical practices, drug use trends, and blood transfusions before widespread screening of the blood supply began in the early 1990s. Screening these individuals helps in early identification and management of chronic HCV, which can lead to liver disease, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma if left untreated. Early identification allows for timely initiation of antiviral treatment, which can lead to a cure and significantly improve long-term health outcomes. This age-specific recommendation aims to reduce the burden of liver disease caused by HCV in the population. Other age groups, such as those under 30 or in the 30-40 or 40-60 ranges, are not the focus of initial screening guidelines, as the prevalence of HCV in these cohorts does not warrant universal