The World Hepatitis Day is observed on July 28 with the aim of bringing awareness about viral Hepatitis in the world together under one single theme.
This year the theme is “Eliminate Hepatitis”.
Viral Hepatitis are five types i.e. A,B,C,D and E out of which Hepatitis A and E spread through fecooral contamination whereas Hepatitis B and C are transmitted through blood and blood products.
Hepatitis ‘B’ and ‘C’ virus are the leading cause of liver cancer in the world. But more than 80 per cent of patient with viral Hepatitis are unaware of this. Viral Hepatitis is not confined to one place but causes a global epidemic sometimes.
There are effective vaccinations for Hepatitis ‘B’ by which we can achieve eradication of the disease.
Out of 500 millions of patients with viral Hepatitis, more than 80 per cent are unaware of the disease. A campaign has been launched by “World Health Organisation” as ‘Finding the missing millions’ in order to educate, screen and treat individuals and their family members.
From 2011 to 2014, approximately 13,000 people suffered for viral Hepatitis in our State.
Prevalence of Hepatitis ‘B’ is 2-3 per cent in Odisha and Hepatitis ‘C’ is less than 1 per cent. However, in certain tribes like Mankidia and Juanga, the Hepatitis ‘B’ prevalence is as high as 15 per cent.
The World Hepatitis Day aims at creating awareness, prevention by screening and vaccination along with treatment for viral Hepatitis.
(Dr Sethi is Senior Consultant and Head, Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Apollo Hospitals, Bhubaneswar, Mob: 8093060180)