It Begins With Me… Taking Action Against Hepatitis

By Chioma Ndeche

28 July 2024   |  
5:00 am

When I was younger, I vividly recall the widespread panic surrounding HIV/AIDS. People were so fearful that they avoided physical contact, and there was a significant level of stigma and misinformation about the disease. Many believed it was an unavoidable death sentence. However, what stands out most in my memory is the collective effort by…

When I was younger, I vividly recall the widespread panic surrounding HIV/AIDS. People were so fearful that they avoided physical contact, and there was a significant level of stigma and misinformation about the disease. Many believed it was an unavoidable death sentence. However, what stands out most in my memory is the collective effort by numerous organisations and governments to combat the stigma and disseminate accurate information. I wish a similar effort was being made for hepatitis.

What is hepatitis?

This is an illness that causes inflammation of hepatocytes, the cells in the liver. Additionally, various factors can cause it, including viruses, fat, alcohol, and even the body’s own immune response (in the case of autoimmune disorders).

Different types

Viral hepatitis is the most common form of this disease. It comes from five different viruses: hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A and E are transmitted via the fecal-oral route. This means they are spread through contaminated food or water. These types are acute, meaning they appear quickly and usually resolve on their own without long-term consequences.

Hepatitis B, C, and D are spread through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, saliva, and breast milk. These types are chronic, meaning they develop slowly and can persist for long periods. Hepatitis B has no cure but can be prevented with a vaccine. While type C, however, can be cured, but there is no vaccine for it. Hepatitis D is a defective virus that requires a pre-existing hepatitis B infection to infect an individual. There is no vaccine specifically for hepatitis D, but the hepatitis B vaccine provides protection against it.

It is important to note that this disease is not an automatic death sentence, but early medical intervention is crucial. Some common signs and symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin). In addition to fatigue, abdominal pain, and dark urine.

World Hepatitis Day is on July 28th to raise awareness about the dangers of this illness and to encourage people to take tests and vaccines. This year’s theme is “Take Action. Test, Treat, Vaccinate”. I find the theme compelling because it underscores the need for proactive measures to reduce its spread.

Treatment steps to take

Knowing your hepatitis status is essential. Get tested regularly to stay informed about your health. If you find out that you have been infected with type B or C, it is crucial to start treatment immediately to manage the disease effectively. Vaccination plays a vital role in preventing its spread. Hepatitis B vaccines are readily available at many healthcare centres across Nigeria. Getting vaccinated can significantly reduce your risk of infection.

Finally, it begins with me, and it begins with you. By taking responsibility for our health and the health of those around us, we can make a significant impact. Stay informed, get tested, start treatment promptly if necessary, and get vaccinated. Together, we can reduce its spread and protect our communities. Take action today and be the change.