As the world observes World Hepatitis Day on July 28, medical professionals across the globe are emphasizing the need for greater awareness and action against one of the most serious public health threats today — Hepatitis B. This year’s global theme, “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down”, is a powerful reminder of the need to simplify complex health information, raise awareness, and empower communities to take action against hepatitis.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver and is transmitted through contact with infected blood and body fluids. It can be passed from mother to child during childbirth, through unsafe injections or blood transfusions, unprotected sexual contact, and even through sharing of razors or toothbrushes. Unlike the common perception that hepatitis is a short-term illness, Hepatitis B can become chronic, silently damaging the liver over many years without the patient realizing it. Left untreated, chronic Hepatitis B can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer.
India accounts for nearly 40 million cases of chronic Hepatitis B, making it one of the most affected countries in the world. However, what makes Hepatitis B particularly dangerous is its often asymptomatic nature. Most individuals infected with the virus do not experience noticeable symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are often mistaken for common ailments: fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice), and pain in the upper abdomen. By the time a diagnosis is made, significant liver damage may have already occurred. This delay in detection contributes to the high burden of liver-related complications in the country.
Despite these alarming facts, there is hope — Hepatitis B is entirely preventable. The Hepatitis B vaccine, included in India’s Universal Immunization Programme, is one of the most effective vaccines available today, providing more than 95% protection when administered correctly. Infants receive the first dose at birth, followed by two or three additional doses in early childhood. However, many adults remain unvaccinated, unaware of their risk or the availability of the vaccine.
“Hepatitis B is a silent killer, but we have a powerful weapon against it — prevention through vaccination."
“Vaccination, regular screening, and lifestyle awareness are critical to combating this disease." People must be educated about the risks, modes of transmission, and the importance of early detection.”
“It takes only a few minutes to get tested, and the peace of mind it brings is invaluable,” they emphasize. “If more people come forward for testing and vaccination, we can prevent future liver complications and save countless lives."
(The writers are Consultant Gastroenterologists at Arihant Hospital, Belagavi)
