Educational Media Reviews Online

Hepatitis C is the most common bloodborne infection in the United States, much more common than HIV. In terms of the public’s awareness however, it is close to nonexistent. The physical manifestations of the illness, or lack thereof, contribute to its invisibility since many infected with the virus are unaware of it until the disease advances to the point of liver damage and even cancer. This short film seeks to raise awareness about the causes, symptoms, prevention and treatment of “Hep C” particularly among young people, the group with the fastest growing rate of infection.

The film is well-organized with attractive graphics to increase interest as well as interviews with a variety of young people. The only minor flaw is that, considering the target audience of students, the case study segment features a mature woman with Hep C. Although she notes in her history that she began using IV drugs (a major risk factor for the disease) at the age of 12, it might have been a more appropriate model for the student viewers if a younger person were interviewed. Nonetheless, this film is likely to impress young viewers about the scope of Hep C and the means to prevent it. Recommended.