May is Hepatitis Awareness Month!

Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver, often caused by viruses (Hepatitis A, B, C, D, E), though it can also result from toxins, alcohol, medications, and autoimmune diseases. Chronic hepatitis can lead to liver failure, cirrhosis, or liver cancer.

Common Risk Factors for Hepatitis

Being aware of what puts you at risk can help in early prevention:

  •  Injection drug use or sharing needles

  • Receiving unscreened blood or blood products

  •  Living or traveling in regions with high hepatitis prevalence

  •  Unprotected sex, especially with multiple partners

  • Occupational exposure to blood (healthcare workers)

  •  Mother-to-child transmission (especially for Hepatitis B)

  •  Long-term use of certain medications or excessive alcohol

  •  Consuming contaminated food/water (Hepatitis A and E)

Watch Out for These Symptoms

Many people may not notice symptoms until liver damage is advanced making Hepatitis a Silent Threat. However, common signs include:

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Abdominal pain (especially upper right side)

  • Loss of appetite

  • Dark urine and pale stool

  • Yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)

  • Joint pain (especially in Hepatitis B)

  • Fever (especially in acute Hepatitis A or E)

Tips for Prevention and Management of Hepatitis

1. Get Vaccinated (Hepatitis A & B)

  • WHO and CDC recommend routine immunization for Hepatitis A and B.

  • Vaccines are safe and effective; they are especially important for children, healthcare workers, and high-risk groups.

  • There is no vaccine for Hepatitis C, but ongoing research continues.

2. Practice Safe Hygiene

  • Wash hands thoroughly, especially before eating and after using the toilet.

  • Hepatitis A and E are often transmitted via contaminated food or water.

  • Drink safe water and avoid raw or undercooked shellfish.

3. Use Safe Injections and Avoid Sharing Needles

  • Hepatitis B and C are commonly spread through blood.

  • Never share syringes, razors, or toothbrushes.

  • Only get tattoos or piercings from certified professionals using sterile equipment.

4. Practice Safe Sex

  • Use condoms to reduce the risk of Hepatitis B and C transmission.

  • Get tested regularly if you have multiple sexual partners or engage in high-risk behaviors.

5. Screening and Early Testing

  • Hepatitis B and C often show no symptoms until liver damage is advanced.

  • If you're in a high-risk group (e.g., people born in regions with high Hepatitis prevalence, people with HIV, or people who inject drugs), get tested regularly.

  • Early detection improves treatment outcomes.

6. Avoid Excessive Alcohol

  • Alcohol accelerates liver damage, especially in individuals with any form of hepatitis.

  • Limit or avoid alcohol consumption entirely.

7. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle

  • Support your liver by eating a balanced diet low in processed foods and fats.

  • Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight—obesity can worsen liver disease.

8. Follow Your Treatment Plan (for Chronic Hepatitis B or C)

  • Hepatitis B: Antiviral medications can control the virus and reduce liver damage.

  • Hepatitis C: Curative antiviral treatment (DAAs) is available and highly effective.

  • Regular monitoring and liver function tests are essential for chronic cases.

9. Protect Others if You Are Infected

  • Do not donate blood or organs.

  • Inform healthcare providers of your status.

  • Avoid sharing personal items that may carry blood.

10. Educate and Advocate

  • Raise awareness about hepatitis in your community.

  • Encourage others to get tested and vaccinated.

NOTE

Hepatitis is preventable, manageable, and often curable. Vaccination, hygiene, safe behaviors, and early detection are your best defense. Don’t wait for symptoms—know your status and protect your liver.