More awareness, early diagnosis key to fighting liver diseases

According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, it is estimated that there are 40 million people chronically infected with Hepatitis B and 12 million with Hepatitis C in India. “Due to the lack of awareness, the health threat to the patients tends to multiply, along with the fact that the disease is by and large silent until the later stages. Only increased awareness and sharing of knowledge can help in tackling the twin burden of the deadly Hepatitis Virus,” said Dr Gopinath, a Hepatologist.

“Hepatitis B and C are asymptomatic. Patients may also develop tiredness, jaundice, significant weight loss and may vomit blood and pass black motion. This condition is called ‘end stage’ liver disease. The virus affects different people in different ways, which makes early diagnosis very important. The only way to detect the virus is by blood testing for HBsAg and Anti HCV. Patients who have virus should get evaluated by specialists to get proper and timely treatment,” said Dr N Murugan, Consultant Hepatologist, Apollo Hospitals, stressing on the need for the diseases to be silenced.

Stating that Hepatitis C can also cause Liver cirrhosis, Dr Udaya, a liver specialist from Vellore, said, “Damage to the liver can occur from chronic alcohol abuse, parasites, and many other causes, including hepatitis. Over time, inflammation in the liver results in scarring and permanent damage called cirrhosis. At the point of cirrhosis, the liver is unable to heal itself. Cirrhosis can lead to end-stage liver disease, liver cancer, and liver failure. If a person has any of these conditions, they may need a liver transplant.” Chennai liver doctors see approximately 20 to 25 patients suffering from Hepatitis B visiting clinics each week. The incidence of Hepatitis C is comparatively lesser. “I see around 25 to 30 patients infected by Hepatitis B a week, and about two to three patients by Hepatitis C weekly. The prevalence of Hepatitis B is much more than that of Hepatitis C. Getting timely screenings done is very important, as early diagnosis can prevent a lot of liver related complications,” added Dr Murugan.