World Hepatitis Day: Let's Shine a Light on Liver Health

Every year on July 28th, the world comes together to observe World Hepatitis Day. It's a crucial day dedicated to raising global awareness of viral hepatitis – a group of infectious diseases that attack the liver and can cause serious health problems, including liver cancer.

Why is World Hepatitis Day so important?

Hepatitis is a silent killer. Many people living with chronic hepatitis B or C are unaware they are infected because they may not experience symptoms for years, even decades. This lack of awareness allows the virus to silently damage the liver, leading to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and even death.

Here's why we need to keep talking about hepatitis:

• It's a global health crisis: Millions of people worldwide are living with chronic hepatitis B or C.
• It's preventable and treatable: Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B, and effective treatments can cure hepatitis C.
• Early detection is key: Regular testing can help identify infections early, allowing for timely treatment and preventing serious complications.
• Stigma and discrimination persist: Many people living with hepatitis face stigma and discrimination, which can prevent them from seeking testing and treatment.

Understanding the Different Types of Hepatitis:

While there are several types of hepatitis, the most common are:

• Hepatitis A: Usually spread through contaminated food or water. It's typically a short-term illness and doesn't lead to chronic liver disease.
• Hepatitis B: Spread through contact with infected blood, semen, or other body fluids. It can be chronic and lead to serious liver damage.
• Hepatitis C: Spread primarily through contact with infected blood. It's often chronic and can cause severe liver damage.
• Hepatitis D: Only occurs in people already infected with hepatitis B. It can worsen liver damage.
• Hepatitis E: Usually spread through contaminated water. It's typically a short-term illness, but can be dangerous for pregnant women.

Recognizing the Signs: Identifying Hepatitis Symptoms

One of the biggest challenges with hepatitis is that many people don't experience symptoms, especially in the early stages of infection. However, when symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on the type of hepatitis and the severity of the infection. It's important to be aware of these potential signs and seek medical attention if you experience them:

Common Symptoms of Acute Hepatitis (all types):

• Flu-like symptoms: Fatigue, fever, muscle aches, and joint pain.
• Loss of appetite: Feeling less hungry than usual.
• Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach and throwing up.
• Abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain in the stomach area, especially in the upper right quadrant (where the liver is located).
• Dark urine: Urine that is darker than normal.
• Pale or clay-colored stools: Bowel movements that are lighter in color than usual.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. This is a key sign of liver dysfunction.
• Itching: Persistent itching, which can be a sign of bile buildup in the body.

Symptoms of Chronic Hepatitis (B and C):

Many people with chronic hepatitis have no symptoms for years. When symptoms do develop, they can be vague and easily mistaken for other conditions. These can include:

• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and lack of energy.
• Mild abdominal pain: Occasional discomfort in the upper right abdomen.
• Loss of appetite: Reduced desire to eat.
• Joint pain: Aches and pains in the joints.

Important Note: These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Don't self-diagnose!

What can you do to get involved?

World Hepatitis Day is a call to action for individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize liver health and combat hepatitis. Here are some ways you can get involved:

• Get tested: Talk to your doctor about getting tested for hepatitis B and C, especially if you have risk factors or are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above.
• Get vaccinated: Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B.
• Spread awareness: Share information about hepatitis with your friends, family, and community.
• Support organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations working to prevent and treat hepatitis.
• Advocate for change: Urge your government to invest in hepatitis prevention, testing, and treatment programs.

Protecting Your Liver: A Lifelong Commitment

World Hepatitis Day is a reminder that protecting our liver is a lifelong commitment. By raising awareness, promoting testing and vaccination, and advocating for better access to treatment, we can work together to eliminate hepatitis and ensure a healthier future for all.

Reach out to your primary care provider for other questions.