AUTHORS:
Dr Varadaraj Gokak
Chief Consultant Gastroenterologist, Arihant Hospital Belagavi
Dr Ganesh Koppad
Consultant Gastroenterologist, Arihant Hospital
Hepatitis B is one of the most common viral infections affecting the liver, yet it remains surrounded by misconceptions. These myths often create unnecessary fear, social stigma, and delays in diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the facts can help prevent infection and protect liver health.
One of the biggest myths is that hepatitis B spreads through sharing food, drinking water, hugging, or shaking hands. In reality, the virus spreads through infected blood, unprotected sexual contact, contaminated needles, and from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. It does not spread through casual social contact.
Another common misconception is that a person with hepatitis B will always have symptoms. The truth is that many infected individuals feel perfectly healthy for years while the virus silently damages the liver. This is why screening is extremely important, especially for people with a family history or those belonging to high-risk groups.
Many people believe jaundice is always present in hepatitis B. However, most patients with chronic hepatitis B never develop jaundice until advanced liver disease occurs. Regular blood tests and appropriate evaluation remain the best ways to detect the infection early.
TREATMENT AND PREVENTION
There is also a belief that hepatitis B is hereditary. It is not a genetic disease but a viral infection. Although it may occur in multiple family members, this is usually due to transmission rather than inheritance.
Some patients lose hope after diagnosis, believing there is no treatment. Fortunately, modern antiviral medications can effectively suppress the virus, prevent liver damage, reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer, and allow patients to lead healthy, productive lives.
Vaccination remains the most powerful weapon against hepatitis B. The vaccine is safe, highly effective, and provides long-lasting protection. Every newborn should receive the birth dose, and unvaccinated adults at risk should also be immunised.
People living with hepatitis B can marry, have children, and enjoy a normal life with proper medical care and appropriate preventive measures. Early diagnosis, regular follow-up, and timely treatment are the keys to preventing complications.
AWARENESS SAVES LIVES
World Hepatitis Day, observed every year on 28 July, reminds us that hepatitis B is preventable, detectable, and treatable. This year’s message is simple: increase awareness, encourage testing, promote vaccination, and ensure that those living with hepatitis B receive timely care. By working together, we can reduce new infections and move closer to eliminating hepatitis B as a public health threat.
As healthcare professionals, our responsibility is not only to treat hepatitis B but also to eliminate the myths surrounding it. Awareness saves lives. If you have never been tested or vaccinated, speak to your doctor today. A simple test and a safe vaccine can protect your liver for a lifetime.
“Know the facts. Get tested. Get vaccinated. Protect your liver.”
