Every year on July 28th, World Hepatitis Day 2024 is observed to raise awareness about viral Hepatitis and encourage actions to combat this global health threat. Millions of people worldwide are infected with viral Hepatitis, notably Hepatitis B and C, which can cause catastrophic liver illnesses like cirrhosis and liver cancer. Hepatitis is a major problem in India, with millions of people infected and an urgent need for education, prevention, and treatment.
These are the different types of hepatitis
Hepatitis A is transmitted when an uninfected individual consumes food or drink contaminated with the faeces of an infected person.
Hepatitis B can be spread through semen, vaginal secretions, and blood, as well as from a mother to a newborn during delivery. Sharing needles and having unprotected intercourse might result in Hepatitis B.
Hepatitis C is transmitted through contact with another person infected with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV).
Hepatitis D spreads when infectious body fluids (blood, saliva, sperm, and vaginal fluid) come into contact with body tissues beneath the skin (by needle puncture or broken skin) or mucous membranes (the thin, moist lining of many regions of the body, including the mouth, throat, and genitals).
Hepatitis E is transmitted through excrement or by drinking or eating something that has come into contact with the virus-infected stool.
Impact of Hepatitis in India
In India, Hepatitis is a major public health concern. According to recent figures, over 40 million individuals are chronically infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV), while an estimated 6 to 12 million people are infected with the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). These infections are a prominent cause of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer), with considerable morbidity and mortality rates in the country.
Precautions for Prevention
Preventing Hepatitis includes taking specific actions that can dramatically lower the chance of transmission:
Vaccination against Hepatitis B is essential. It is indicated for newborns, healthcare workers, and others who are more susceptible to illness.
Practice Safe Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Do not share personal goods like razors and toothbrushes.
Safe Sex Practices: Using condoms can help minimize the risk of Hepatitis B and C transmission.
Avoid Sharing Needles: Never share needles or syringes, whether for injecting drugs or for medical reasons.
Screening and testing: Hepatitis B and C can be detected early and treated promptly by regular screening.
Education and Awareness: Increase awareness of Hepatitis transmission and prevention methods in communities and healthcare settings.
Healing Pharma’s Commitment to Healthcare in India
Healing Pharma has been at the forefront of increasing healthcare access in India. They are dedicated to ensuring easy access to high-quality generic medicines at competitive prices. Their product line comprises critical pharmaceuticals for a variety of health disorders, ensuring that patients obtain appropriate care without incurring financial strain.
Conclusion
On World Hepatitis Day, let us commit to raising awareness about hepatitis, its prevention, and the need for early detection and treatment. We can all help toward a hepatitis-free future by adopting preventive efforts like immunization, practicing safe hygiene, and supporting healthcare brands like Healing Pharma Online. Together, we can help battle hepatitis and improve public health in India.