Health

History of World Hepatitis Day 

In the early days, World Hepatitis Day was observed on 19 May every year and its observation was moved to 28 July in 2010. It was the year 2007 when the World Hepatitis Alliance came into existence. This organization made a decision to organize a global event to make people aware of hepatitis A, B, and C. In 2008, it organized the first World Hepatitis Day. In order to honor the birthday of Dr Baruch Samuel Blumberg, an American inventor of Hepatitis B in 1960, this world assembly decided to observe World Hepatitis Day on July 28 each year. The World Health Organization gave its permission in this regard.

Importance of World Hepatitis Day

The primary objective of World Hepatitis Day, observed on 28 July each year, is to improve the awareness of all hepatitis viruses among common people and how it can affect their health. On this day, health professionals make people and communities know about all the varieties of hepatitis viruses, treatment options, and preventive measures. It promotes cooperation and international advocacy to fight against the increase in the number of infected people and fatalities caused by hepatitis. The World Health Organization aims to eradicate this disease by the end of 2030 with a focus on early diagnosis, increased immunization, and enhanced access to healthcare services. 

What Should You Know About Hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a type of liver inflammation that occurs due several different noninfectious agents and infectious viruses. On its occurrence, it paves the way to have many health issues. Some of those health issues could be fatal. The hepatitis viruses are of five types - A, B, C, D, and E. All these hepatitis virus types are responsible for liver diseases. However, they are distinguished in terms of transmission modes, illness severity, prevention methods, and geographical distribution. 

Particularly hepatitis B and hepatitis C lead to severe illness and can make people have liver cancer, liver cirrhosis, and deaths. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 354 million people have hepatitis B or C and most of them are unable to access the required healthcare services. As per the CDC (Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention), the most common hepatitis virus types are hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. 

Types of Hepatitis

As per the leading health organizations across the world, there are five types of hepatitis. Here is brief information of each hepatitis virus type:

Common Symptoms of Hepatitis 

In the early few weeks of infection, many people experience no visible signs. To have visible symptoms of hepatitis, people can take two weeks to 6 months. Here are some common hepatitis symptoms:

Causes of Hepatitis

Several infectious viruses and noninfectious agents cause different types of hepatitis diseases. Here are some causes of hepatitis:

• Hepatitis A - HAV exposure through food or water 

• Hepatitis B - Due to contact with HAB through bodily fluids like semen, blood, or vaginal secretion 

• Hepatitis C - Due to contact with HAB through bodily fluids like semen, blood, or vaginal secretion 

• Hepatitis D - Caused by contact with infected people through blood containing HDV 

• Hepatitis E - Exposure to HEV through food or water 

• Alcohol and toxins 

• Autoimmune system response 

Hepatitis Diagnosis/Diagnosis for Hepatitis

You should consult a respective doctor as you suspect having hepatitis or experience a few hepatitis symptoms. After interacting with you, your doctor will conduct a physical examination and recommend a few diagnostic tests that could be:

Hepatitis Treatment 

After going through respective test results, your doctor will advise you the best possible treatment plan that could include medicines, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. Your hepatitis treatment options could be:

How to Prevent Hepatitis/Hepatitis Preventive Tips  

All of us know that prevention is better than treatment. By following a few useful steps, you can safeguard yourself or your close one from chronic hepatitis. Here are effective hepatitis preventive tips for you:

Conclusion 

Based on its type, hepatitis is an acute chronic health problem. Ignoring it can lead to serious health issues like liver cancer and even death. Being aware of hepatitis types, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention can help you take the requisite step. And you will live your life healthily.