Hepatitis Awareness: Know the Risks and Protect Your Liver

Every year on 28 July, World Hepatitis Day is observed around the world. The purpose of this day is to raise public awareness about hepatitis, dispel misconceptions about the disease, and highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), millions of people worldwide are living with hepatitis, many without knowing that they are infected. In Bangladesh, hepatitis B and C remain significant public health challenges and can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer over time. Therefore, if jaundice develops, it is extremely important to consult a doctor without delay.

The four major types of viral hepatitis are hepatitis A, B, C, and E. Hepatitis A and E are generally transmitted through contaminated food and water. Although most people recover completely from these infections, they remain significant public health concerns in developing countries where access to safe food and clean drinking water may be limited.

Hepatitis B and C, on the other hand, are particularly concerning. These viruses are commonly transmitted through infected blood, contaminated needles or medical equipment, and unprotected sexual contact. One of the biggest challenges is that the infection can remain in the body for years without causing noticeable symptoms. As a result, permanent liver damage may begin before the disease is diagnosed. Without timely treatment, hepatitis B and C can lead to liver cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer.

Jaundice should never be assumed to be a condition that will simply go away on its own. Symptoms such as yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark-colored urine, weakness, loss of appetite, or nausea require prompt medical evaluation. Today, a simple blood test can help determine which type of hepatitis a patient may have. Starting treatment without an accurate diagnosis can increase the risk of complications.

In addition to awareness, vaccination plays a highly effective role in preventing hepatitis. Vaccines are available to provide long-term protection against hepatitis A, while the hepatitis B vaccine is also highly safe and effective. Vaccination against these two types can prevent a significant proportion of viral hepatitis infections. For hepatitis A and E, some of the most effective preventive measures include drinking clean water, consuming safe food, and maintaining good personal hygiene.

With advances in medical science, hepatitis C is no longer considered as difficult to treat as it once was. Modern antiviral medicines can generally eliminate the virus from the body with approximately three months of treatment. As a result, when hepatitis C is detected and treated promptly, most patients can achieve a cure and return to normal life. Therefore, a diagnosis of hepatitis C should not automatically cause panic; starting appropriate treatment as early as possible is what matters most.

The Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Evercare Hospital Chattogram provides world-class care for a wide range of diseases affecting the liver, stomach, intestines, gallbladder, and pancreas. The department offers advanced diagnostic facilities, endoscopic services, and international-standard treatment to support accurate diagnosis, appropriate management, and long-term follow-up. Patient safety, accurate diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment remain key priorities in delivering high-quality healthcare.

There is still a significant lack of awareness about hepatitis in Bangladesh. Many people ignore symptoms or delay seeking medical attention. However, many hepatitis infections can be prevented through timely diagnosis, appropriate vaccination, safe blood and medical equipment practices, consumption of clean food and water, and avoidance of high-risk behaviors.

On the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, Dr. Sandeep Dhawan, Senior Consultant, said, “Clean food, safe water, and personal hygiene are simple ways to prevent hepatitis.”

Dr. Mushfiqul Abrar, Consultant, said, “Never consider jaundice a minor problem. Appropriate testing, early diagnosis, and modern treatment are the most effective ways to protect liver health.”

Dr. S. M. Shohel Rana, Attending Consultant, said, “Vaccines are available to prevent hepatitis, and modern treatment options are also available. What is needed now is awareness, timely testing, and the right action.”

Dr. Debashish Chowdhury, Senior Consultant, said, “Even an effort to reduce body weight by 5–7% can significantly reduce the risk associated with fatty liver. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and awareness are the strongest foundations for a healthy liver and a healthy life.”

A healthy liver contributes to a healthy body. Therefore, any symptoms of jaundice or liver disease should never be ignored, and timely consultation with a specialist is essential. Awareness, prevention, and timely appropriate treatment are our most effective weapons against hepatitis.