Hepatitis: Experts Urge Awareness, Screening, Vaccination

During a recent webinar held in observance of World Hepatitis Day, medical experts stressed the critical need for greater awareness, timely screening, and vaccination to combat hepatitis infections. The condition, characterized by liver inflammation caused by viruses A through E, presents varying levels of severity.

Hepatitis A and E infections are typically less serious and have a lower chance of becoming chronic. However, Hepatitis B and C are considered dangerous and can progress to liver cancer. Experts advocate for universal screening of all adults aged 18 and above, with a particular focus on pregnant women and individuals with certain comorbidities.

These serious forms of hepatitis often remain silent in their early stages, making screening vital for identifying potential liver damage, cirrhosis, and cancer. While Hepatitis B may require lifelong management and Hepatitis C can generally be cured with medication, both necessitate long-term surveillance due to the persistent risk of tumor development.

Vaccination remains a cornerstone in preventing Hepatitis A and B. Although a vaccine for Hepatitis C is not yet available, effective antiviral treatments offer hope for managing the infection. Furthermore, lifestyle modifications were highlighted as important in slowing the progression of liver disease.