Hepatitis B and C: Silent Killers Threaten Alberta’s Health
Viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B and C, poses a significant threat to the health of Albertans. These stealthy diseases silently wreak havoc on the liver and can eventually lead to liver cancer and death if left undiagnosed and untreated. According to experts, the danger lies in the fact that most individuals infected with hepatitis do not experience any symptoms until the liver damage has already occurred, which can take several decades.
Alexa Thompson, a PhD candidate at the University of Alberta and the founder of the Alberta Elimination Network, remains optimistic about the province’s ability to eliminate hepatitis; however, she emphasizes that more work needs to be done, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The prevalence of hepatitis C in Alberta is estimated to be one in every 150 individuals, but shockingly, only half of them are aware of their infection. Unlike hepatitis B, there is currently no vaccine available for hepatitis C. Nevertheless, there is hope for those affected, as highly effective treatments can cure hepatitis C in as little as eight to 12 weeks.
Viral hepatitis, known as a silent killer, poses a considerable public health threat. To compound the issue, tracking the statistics related to hepatitis B in Alberta is a challenge. While vaccinations are available for hepatitis B, there is no cure. However, with proper treatment, individuals living with hepatitis B can comfortably manage the disease.
In 2020 alone, the province reported 320 cases of chronic hepatitis B and 601 cases of chronic hepatitis C, underscoring the urgent need to address and control these silent killers.
The battle against hepatitis B and C requires a multipronged approach that includes raising awareness, increasing testing and diagnosis, improving access to treatments, and enhancing prevention efforts. The key is to detect the infection early and provide appropriate care to prevent complications such as liver cancer and death.
Moving forward, it is essential for healthcare authorities, researchers, and advocates in Alberta to join forces and prioritize the elimination of viral hepatitis. By implementing comprehensive strategies and removing barriers to testing and treatment, it is possible to make significant progress in mitigating the impact of these diseases on the population.
While the road to elimination may be challenging, the resolve to combat hepatitis B and C remains strong. With concerted efforts and continued investments in healthcare, Alberta can strive towards a future where viral hepatitis is a thing of the past.
