Over 350 million people worldwide are currently living with viral hepatitis, and the annual death toll from related conditions exceeds 1 million. The urgency to take action in addressing this global health crisis cannot be overstated. Greater awareness among the public about hepatitis is crucial, from early detection to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. An Emirati doctor, Dr Saeed Al Marzooqi, emphasizes the importance of early detection and vaccination drives to combat the risks associated with viral hepatitis, such as liver cancer and cirrhosis.
Hepatitis is a medical term used to describe the inflammation of the liver, which is responsible for processing nutrients, filtering the blood, and fighting infections. When the liver becomes significantly inflamed or damaged, its vital functions are affected. Hepatitis viruses are the primary cause of this condition, but it can also be triggered by other infections, toxic substances like alcohol, certain drugs, and autoimmune diseases.
The symptoms of viral hepatitis may not manifest in most patients, leaving them unaware of their infection. Symptoms can appear within two weeks to six months after exposure and include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-colored stools, joint pain, and jaundice. It’s worth noting that many individuals can have chronic viral hepatitis for years without any symptoms until they develop advanced liver scarring (cirrhosis) and liver cancer.
There are five main types of viral hepatitis: A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A is highly contagious and is primarily contracted through contaminated food or water. It can also spread through contact with contaminated individuals or objects. Hepatitis E is similar to hepatitis A and can cause self-limiting hepatitis. Vaccines are available and recommended for children to protect against hepatitis A.
Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection that, if left undetected and untreated, can become chronic. It increases the risk of liver failure, liver cancer, or cirrhosis. The virus is transmitted through sexual contact, sharing needles and razors, and contaminated tattoo needles. There is a vaccine to prevent hepatitis B, although there is currently no cure. However, long-term treatments are available to effectively control the virus.
Hepatitis C is a viral infection that, if not treated, can lead to severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and potential liver failure. It is transmitted similarly to hepatitis B and can develop into a long-term infection in up to 85% of cases. Unlike hepatitis B, there is currently no vaccine for hepatitis C. However, there is a cure available in the form of daily pills taken for 2 to 3 months, with success rates exceeding 95%.
Globally, more than 350 million individuals are currently living with viral hepatitis. Tragically, over a million people die each year due to conditions related to acute hepatitis and chronic infection, which commonly result in liver cancer and cirrhosis. Chronic hepatitis B and C infections are significant contributors to liver cancer cases.
Prevention plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of viral hepatitis. If you have previously been diagnosed with hepatitis B, it’s essential to follow up regularly with a gastroenterologist or hepatologist, even if you haven’t required treatment in the past. Monitoring the virus activity through blood tests and regular liver ultrasounds can help detect early signs of liver cancer.
In conclusion, viral hepatitis is a pressing global health issue affecting millions of people and causing significant mortality. Raising awareness about the disease, its prevention, and early detection is vital. By taking appropriate measures, such as vaccination, regular check-ups, and available treatments, the risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis can be significantly reduced. Efforts to combat viral hepatitis will require a collaborative approach involving healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public at large. Together, we can make a difference and improve the lives of those affected by this silent epidemic.
