Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver and there are several types of this infection. When applying for life insurance while affected by this disease, an impaired risk life insurance specialist is the best to talk to, but understanding the infection is a good first step. So what are the different types of hepatitis?
Hepatitis A: is generally mild and ingested through contaminated food and water and does not cause permanent liver damage. A vaccine is available to prevent Hepatitis A.
Hepatitis B: can range from mild to severe and can be lifelong. It can be either acute or chronic. It is considered chronic if the individual tests positive after 6 months. Getting vaccinated to prevent Hepatitis B is the best resource for not contracting the condition.
Hepatitis C: is contagious and can be lifelong. If long term, it can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer.
Hepatitis life insurance underwriting for A or B is not usually a problem especially if the virus was long ago and there are no positive results when tested. But everything depends on the severity of your condition. However, if you have chronic Hepatitis C and have been a drug user, this will affect your ability to get insurance.
Other factors that will hurt coverage attempts:
- Drinking alcohol
- Cirrhosis of the liver
- Elevated liver function tests
- Other medical conditions diagnosed
With any medical condition, life insurance companies want to see what kind of treatments have been received and if regular follow-up health care visits are being completed. If lifestyle changes have been made such as no alcohol or tobacco use, then many times companies will insure the individual because progress is being made over a period of time.
Talk to an insurance specialist and answer questions honestly to get the best estimates for your situation. Family history and other factors also are part of the underwriting process.