Hepatitis: What is it, its types and importance
Hepatitis is a serious infectious disease known as inflammation of the liver. This disease, triggered by viral infections, is divided into five main types: A, B, C, D and E. Each type is transmitted in different ways and can lead to various health problems. Hepatitis has become a major health problem worldwide, and Hepatitis B and C in particular are associated with high mortality rates.
The Global Impact of Hepatitis B and C
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) reports, every day approximately 3,500 people are losing their lives due to diseases caused by hepatitis B and C. In our country, there are approximately 100,000 people who have not yet been diagnosed. 3.5 million hepatitis B ve 750 thousand hepatitis C It is estimated that 100,000 people have the disease. These figures reveal how widespread and dangerous the disease is.
Hepatitis B and C: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Hepatitis B and C can be carried by many patients without being noticed. Çukurova University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Head Prof. Dr. Yeşim Taşova provides the following information on the subject: “Many people live without knowing that they are infected with hepatitis B and C. This increases the risk of infected people transmitting the disease to their family members and other individuals around them.”
Diagnosis and Treatment: Why Is It Important?
People infected with hepatitis B should only 4 in 1 diagnosis can be made. These patients can only 5 in 1 can access treatment. Diagnosis and initiation of treatment are critical to reducing the risk of liver cancer and cirrhosis. In hepatitis C, patients who cannot be diagnosed often face liver cancer. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment play a vital role.
Hepatitis C Treatment: New Methods and Success Rate
There have been significant developments in the treatment of Hepatitis C in recent years. New treatment methods are available according to the patient's condition. 8-12 weeks Successful results can be achieved with pill treatment between. If diagnosed, the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer is significantly reduced in people who start treatment. Therefore, early diagnosis and referral of patients to treatment is a great necessity.
Fighting Hepatitis from a Public Health Perspective
Prof. Dr. Yeşim Taşova draws attention to the importance of the “Let's eliminate hepatitis B and C” campaign launched by the World Health Organization in 2016. With this campaign, hepatitis B infections percent 95, hepatitis C infections percent 85 To achieve these goals, public awareness should be raised and screening programs should be expanded.
Hepatitis B and C Transmission Routes
Hepatitis B virus is transmitted through sexual intercourse, blood, and mother-to-child transmission. Hepatitis C is mostly transmitted through blood. Sharing syringes during intravenous drug use increases the risk of transmission of these viruses. Therefore, reducing drug use and adopting careful behaviors are of great importance.
Precautions and Awareness
Precautions to be taken to prevent hepatitis infections include:
- Getting tested: It is critical that individuals be tested for hepatitis B and C for early diagnosis of the disease.
- Clean apps: Attention should be paid to the hygiene standards of dentists and other health service providers.
- Not sharing personal belongings: Items such as toothbrushes and razors should not be shared.
- Vaccination: Getting vaccinated against hepatitis B is an effective way to prevent infection.
As a result
Hepatitis continues to be a major health problem worldwide. Early diagnosis, treatment and public awareness can help prevent the spread of this disease. It is of great importance that each individual takes responsibility and implements the necessary precautions in the fight against hepatitis infections.
