Chronic HCV infection is a risk of atherosclerosis. Role of HCV and HCV-related steatosis

Chronic hepatitis C  patients have an earlier and a higher prevalence of atherosclerosis than general population.. HCV RNA and HCV-related steatosis are the independent factors associated with atherosclerosis.  HCV and steatosis promote atherogenesis through inflammation and metabolic changes.  CHC patients should be screened routinely for asymptomatic atherosclerosis.