The World Hepatitis Day, observed July 28 every year is aimed at raising global awareness on hepatitis. Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver tissue.The most common cause of the diseases is the Hepatitis Viruses. It can also be caused by the consumption of excessive alcohol, certain medication, infections, autoimmune disease among others.
All these groups of hepatitis affect the liver. Viral Hepatitis B and C are major health challenges affecting 325 million people globally.
Viral hepatitis is also the root cause of liver cancer, leading to 1.34 million deaths every year
Ten Facts about Hepatitis B and C disease:
1. Viral hepatitis B and C are major health challenges, according to WHO, viral hepatitis affects 325 million people globally
2. Hepatitis B and C are root causes of liver cancer, leading to 1.34 million deaths every year.
3. Hepatitis B and C are chronic infections that may not show symptoms for a long period, sometimes years or decades.
4. At least 60 per cent of liver cancer cases are due to late testing and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C.
6. Timely testing and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C can save lives.
7. Viral hepatitis has become a major killer due to lack of attention
8. Hepatitis can be prevented, diagnosed, treatable and even cured.
9. Hepatitis B and C is a communicable disease.
10. The diseases can be transmitted through sharing of sharp objects, sweats, unsafe blood transfusion among others.
Seven facts about Hepatitis B vaccine
1. Hepatitis B vaccine is made from parts of the hepatitis B virus.
2. It cannot cause hepatitis B infection.
3. The vaccine is usually given as 3 or 4 shots over a 6-month period.
4. Infants should get their first dose of hepatitis B vaccine at birth and will usually complete the series at 6 months of age.
6. Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for unvaccinated adults who are at risk for hepatitis B virus infection.
7. There are no known risks to getting hepatitis B vaccine at the same time as other vaccines.
Source: Premiumtimes
