Posted on: Thu 13-02-2025

A consultant Public Health Physician at Ikorodu General Hospital, Dr Yetunde Odusolu has called for an urgent action to prevent hepatitis, which remains a public health crisis in the country.

Odusolu emphasised the urgent need for government intervention by providing free testing services nationwide, similar to HIV screening programmes to ensure early detection and improving access to hepatitis treatment.

She urged the government to subsidise vaccines and make hepatitis prevention more affordable for the general population. “Improving access to antiviral medications by supporting local pharmaceutical companies with tax incentives and funding would ensure that life-saving drugs are available and affordable.

“Public health campaigns are also crucial in raising awareness about hepatitis. The government must invest in education programmes to inform the public about prevention, symptoms, and treatment options. Training healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat hepatitis effectively will improve patient outcomes.

“Establishing more specialised treatment centres across the country will also help provide adequate care for those affected. Furthermore, collaborations between the public and private sectors can expand hepatitis management efforts, making diagnosis and treatment more accessible.

“By implementing these strategies, Nigeria can reduce hepatitis-related deaths and move closer to the WHO’s goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. Without urgent action, hepatitis will continue to claim thousands of lives each year, making it imperative for both the government and individuals to take the necessary steps to combat this growing epidemic,” she added.

Odusolu told The Guardian that hepatitis is caused by viruses transmitted through contaminated food and water, sexual contact, exposure to infected blood, shared needles, and from mother to child during childbirth. She said recognising the symptoms of hepatitis is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. “While some individuals experience mild or no symptoms, others develop severe complications.

“Common signs of hepatitis include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, and jaundice, which causes the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Chronic hepatitis infections often go unnoticed for years until they cause irreversible liver damage.”

According to her, the five main types of viral hepatitis vary in their severity and long-term effects. “Hepatitis A typically causes acute illness but rarely leads to chronic infection. Hepatitis B is more dangerous, as it can result in chronic infection, increasing the risk of liver cirrhosis and cancer.

“Hepatitis C is another serious form of the disease, often progressing to chronic infection, which can lead to liver failure if untreated, while Hepatitis D is particularly aggressive in individuals already infected with Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis E mainly affects people with weakened immune systems and pregnant women, for whom the infection can be life-threatening.”

She explained, Hepatitis can be fatal, especially if left untreated or if the patient has a compromised immune system. Chronic Hepatitis B and C are the most life-threatening, as they can lead to severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

“The disease remains a silent killer because many people do not realise they are infected until they develop advanced liver disease. Treatment options for hepatitis depend on the specific type of virus. Hepatitis A and E usually resolve on their own, requiring only supportive care such as rest, hydration, and proper nutrition.

“Hepatitis B can be managed with antiviral medications such as tenofovir and entecavir, which help suppress the virus and slow liver damage. Hepatitis C, once considered incurable, can now be treated effectively with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) like sofosbuvir and ledipasvir, which can cure the infection in most cases. However, Hepatitis D remains challenging to treat, with limited antiviral options available,” she said.

Odusolu said: “Preventing hepatitis requires a combination of vaccination, safe practices, and proper hygiene. The Hepatitis A and B vaccines are highly effective in providing long-term immunity. Practising safe sex, using condoms, and avoiding the sharing of needles or unsterilised medical equipment can significantly reduce the risk of Hepatitis B and C transmission.

“Maintaining proper hygiene, such as regular handwashing and consuming clean food and water, helps prevent hepatitis A and E infections. Additionally, avoiding alcohol and tobacco use is essential for individuals living with hepatitis, as these substances can worsen liver damage.

“A healthy lifestyle plays a critical role in managing hepatitis. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help support liver function, while regular exercise can improve overall health and reduce stress. People living with hepatitis should undergo routine medical check-ups to monitor their liver health and detect any potential complications early.”

SOURCE: GUARDIAN NEWSPAPER

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