New Delhi: Health experts are urging people to undergo timely screening for Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, warning that these infections often remain undetected for years while silently damaging the liver. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of life-threatening complications such as liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Often referred to as “silent killers”, Hepatitis B and C usually show few or no symptoms during the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they are often vague and may include fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort or mild jaundice. As a result, many people ignore these warning signs until the disease has already progressed.
Early detection can save lives
Doctors say that simple blood tests can detect Hepatitis B and C long before serious liver damage occurs. People with a family history of liver disease, those who have received blood transfusions in the past, healthcare workers, and individuals with other risk factors are encouraged to undergo regular screening.
Medical advances have made treatment more effective than ever. While Hepatitis B can be managed with antiviral medicines, Hepatitis C can often be completely cured with modern antiviral therapy if diagnosed early.
Awareness remains the strongest defence
Health specialists stress that vaccination against Hepatitis B remains one of the most effective preventive measures. Maintaining safe medical practices, avoiding the sharing of needles and ensuring screened blood transfusions are equally important in preventing transmission.
Experts also recommend regular health check-ups, especially for people at higher risk, as early diagnosis not only improves treatment outcomes but also prevents the spread of infection to others. Increased awareness and timely screening can help reduce the growing burden of liver disease and save countless lives.