Find the Missing Millions – Hepatitis B and C Awareness and Early Diagnosis

About 290 million people are living with hepatitis B and hepatitis C, unaware of their infection. Nine out of ten people infected with the virus are unaware of their infection and therefore do not receive treatment. This is a dangerous situation. If left untreated, the virus can cause long-term damage to the liver, leading to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. These life-threatening conditions can be prevented with the timely diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis. Finding the millions who are missing their treatment is the theme of this World Hepatitis Day.

Why are Hepatitis B and C So Often Undiagnosed?

Most people infected with hepatitis B and hepatitis C do not have any symptoms. Even if they do have symptoms, they may not appear until as late as 6 months after infection. Moreover, this viral infection may have been transmitted during childbirth, so it remains unrecognized throughout life. The onset of symptoms may be so gradual that they may not be aware of it in the early stages. Knowing the risks of infection and whether you have been exposed to the virus are key factors in determining whether to get tested for it early or not. The earlier you get tested and treated, the better your chances of preventing liver damage.

Symptoms of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C

Symptoms of hepatitis may develop gradually, but recognizing them in the early stages can help you get treated. The symptoms include,

• Jaundice
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Nausea/ vomiting
• Pale stool
• Dark urine
• Joint pain
• Rarely Itching

Risk Factors of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C

Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C spread through infected blood and blood products. You are at an increased risk if you experience any of the following.

• Share razors, needles, and toothbrushes
• You were born to a hepatitis positive mother
• A health worker who is exposed to blood
• Have had unprotected sex
• Injection drug abuse
• piercing or a tattoo
• Share medical equipment, such as a glucose monitor
• Undergoing dialysis

In India, teens and young adults are at higher risk of having undetected hepatitis. If you are in a high-risk group or experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor. A blood test will detect if you have the infection. Rela Hospital is a world-class liver care centre with one of the best liver transplant services in the world. The highly skilled liver team is dedicated to protecting your liver and preventing/managing all liver diseases.