Experts call for timely screening, vaccination against hepatitis infections
Medical experts are advocating for universal screening and vaccination to combat hepatitis infections in India. The discussion emphasized the risks of chronic liver damage associated with Hepatitis B and C.
Why it matters
Public health awareness is critical for preventing long-term liver diseases like cirrhosis and cancer, which are often silent in early stages.
Expert called for greater awareness, timely screening, and vaccination in preventing hepatitis infections during a webinar organised as part of The Hindu Wellness Series. The webinar, ‘Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down – Prevention, Early Detection, Cure’, held on Monday, was presented by Kauvery Hospital on the occasion of World Hepatitis Day on July 28.
Hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver caused by viruses A, B, C, D, and E. A. Shafique, Interventional Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Kauvery Hospital, Tirunelveli, explained how each infection is transmitted and said that while Hepatitis A and E are less serious and have a lower risk of becoming chronic, Hepatitis B and C are dangerous and can even lead to liver cancer.
Dr. Shafique explained the risk factors and modes of transmission and called for universal screening, i.e., screening all adults above 18 years of age, especially pregnant women and people with certain comorbidities.
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