Hepatitis

Introduction: Why should you care about hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a silent but serious disease that affects the liver. Many people in Africa suffer from it without even knowing. According to the world health organization (WHO), about 91 million people in Africa are living with hepatitis B or C, and many don’t get treatment until it’s too late.

Liver diseases caused by hepatitis are among the leading causes of death in Africa, but many people still don’t talk about it. Why? Because it doesn’t show symptoms early. That’s why we must educate ourselves, take preventive measures, and seek treatment if necessary.

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis simply means inflammation of the liver. This means the liver is swollen or damaged, making it difficult to work properly. It can be caused by:

  • Viruses (Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E)
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Certain medications and herbal drugs
  • Autoimmune diseases (when the body mistakenly attacks the liver)

The most common types in Africa are Hepatitis B and C, which spread through blood, sexual contact, and from mother to baby during birth.

How common is hepatitis in Africa?

Hepatitis is a major public health issue in Africa. Here are some shocking facts:

  • Over 60 million people in Africa live with hepatitis B.
  • More than 31 million people have hepatitis C.
  • Hepatitis B is up to 100 times more infectious than HIV.
  • Many people only find out they have hepatitis when they develop serious liver problems like cancer.

Types of hepatitis and how they spread?

Viral hepatitis (caused by viruses)

  • Hepatitis A: Spread through contaminated food or water. Common in places with poor sanitation.
  • Hepatitis B: Spread through infected blood, sexual contact, and from mother to baby during birth.
  • Hepatitis C: Spread through blood contact (e.g., sharing razors, needles, or unsterilized medical tools).
  • Hepatitis D: Affects only people who already have Hepatitis B. Spread through blood.
  • Hepatitis E: Like Hepatitis A, it spreads through dirty water and food.

Non-viral hepatitis (caused by other factors)

  • Alcohol-related hepatitis: Drinking too much alcohol damages the liver.
  • Drug-induced hepatitis: Some medicines, including herbal remedies, can damage the liver if used improperly.
  • Autoimmune hepatitis: The body mistakenly attacks the liver, causing inflammation.

Symptoms of Hepatitis

Many people with chronic hepatitis (long-term) may not notice any symptoms for years. However, acute hepatitis (short-term) can show signs such as:

  • Feeling very tired
  • Flu-like symptoms (fever, body pain, loss of appetite)
  • Dark urine (tea-colored)
  • Pale or gray stool
  • Abdominal pain (especially on the right side under the ribs)
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

How is hepatitis diagnosed?

If you suspect hepatitis, your doctor may do the following tests:

  1. Blood tests: Check if you have the virus.
  2. Liver function tests: Measure how well your liver is working.
  3. Ultrasound: Shows any liver damage.
  4. Liver biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken to check for severe damage.

How is hepatitis treated?

Treatment depends on the type of hepatitis:

  • Hepatitis A & E: No specific treatment. The body fights it off naturally.
  • Hepatitis B & C: Antiviral medications help manage the disease and prevent liver damage.
  • Severe hepatitis (cirrhosis or liver failure): Some people may need a liver transplant.

How to prevent hepatitis?

Vaccination

  • Hepatitis A and B vaccines are available and recommended for all children and atrisk adults.
  • There are no vaccines yet for Hepatitis C, D, or E.

Protect yourself from infection?

  • Avoid sharing needles, razors, or unsterilized sharp objects.
  • Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
  • Ensure blood transfusions are from a safe source.
  • Drink clean water and practice good hygiene.
  • Be careful with herbal medicines, some may harm the liver.

Complications of hepatitis?

If left untreated, chronic hepatitis B or C can lead to:

  • Liver cirrhosis (hardening and scarring of the liver)
  • Liver cancer
  • Liver failure (which can be fatal)

Conclusion: Take action today!

Hepatitis is a silent killer, but it can be prevented and treated. The key to staying healthy is: 

  • Seek medical help early if you notice symptoms
  • Get tested regularly
  • Take the vaccine if available
  • Avoid risky behaviors