Hepatitis is a global concern but it is one of the most pressing problems faced by India as warned by WHO. The 2020 report says, more than 5 crore people are suffering either from Hepatitis B or C in India. And around 2 lakhs have died struggling with this infectious disease.
World Hepatitis Day thus holds great importance as it is marked to spread awareness about its symptoms, treatment, and precautions.
World Hepatitis Day 2021: Know The Man Who Discovered Hep Virus
via:nobelprize
28 July is a special day in the history of the world as on this day Dr. Baruch Blumberg was born. He was an American physician and geneticist who discovered hepatitis B. This discovery proved a boon for mankind as it helped to find the methods for protecting people from the unknown hep virus.
Later, Dr. Blumberg developed a test kit to diagnose hepatitis and a vaccine to prevent its spread. He was awarded Nobel-Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1976 for his discovery.
World Hepatitis day is celebrated to mark his birth anniversary and his huge contribution to the field of science.
What Is Hepatitis?
It is a viral infection that damages the tissues of the liver and affects its functioning. As a result, the body loses the following ability to:
via:everydayhealth
• Filter toxins,
• Produce digestive juices,
• Store glycogen
• Synthesize blood proteins and clotting factors
• Activate essential enzymes
• Break fats, carbs, and protein into smaller compounds
Also Read: 10 Best Low Sugar Fruits And Vegetables To Keep Your Sugar In Control
Know The Causes, Warning Signs, And Prevention On World Hepatitis Day
Although it is a viral infection, alcohol consumption and autoimmune system failure can also cause Hepatitis. Overdose of certain medicines is another major cause.
via:hepatitisaustralia
There are a total of 5 types of hepatitis viruses that lead to liver damage. Among all Hep A and E is not chronic and cause no complications but others are deadly and can even cause organ failure. Most of them do not show any symptoms therefore it is crucial to look for these warning signs:
via:healthgrade
1. Stomach pain
2. Pain in joints
3. Jaundice
4. Darkening of urine
5. Pale stool
6. Appetite loss
7. Fatigue
The symptoms of hepatitis show up gradually thus they are hard to notice which increases the risk of liver failure, weak immune system, liver cancer, and even death.
Also Read: Do You Need To Wear A Mask If You Are Vaccinated Against COVID-19?
7 Prevention Tips To Protect Your Liver
There are treatments to reduce the further complications but it has no permanent cure. Thus, adopting some precautions is highly important to protect your liver. Here are some tips:
via:quint
• Limit the alcohol consumption
• Practice good hygiene
• Get hepatitis vaccines
• Do not share razors, toothbrushes, and products used to maintain genital hygiene
• Avoid getting tattoos as using infected needles can spread hep-virus
• Practice safe sex
• Always eat cooked food
As the theme of World Hepatitis Day 2021 says “Hepatitis Can’t-Wait” so do not ignore your liver health and follow these precautions.