ACCORDING to the World Health Organisation, an estimated 354 million people worldwide live with hepatitis B or C1.
In Malaysia, hepatitis B affects about one per cent of the population, while hepatitis C affects approximately 2.5 per cent.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious agents. It leads to a range of health problems, including chronic disease and severe liver complications, including liver failure.
Sunway Medical Centre consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist Dr Sheikh Anwar Abdullah says the most common types of hepatitis in Malaysia are B and C, which can cause chronic disease, liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Hepatitis A and E are transmitted through contaminated food or water, whereas B, C and D spread through blood and bodily fluids.
"Understanding transmission modes is crucial for effective prevention," says Dr Sheikh Anwar.
A significant challenge in managing hepatitis C is its asymptomatic nature, he adds, which often leads to late diagnosis when the disease has progressed to a severe stage, potentially causing cirrhosis or cancer.
"If you don't check, you won't know you have it until it's already chronic."
Early screening and diagnosis is critical to preventing complications of hepatitis C, while regular follow-ups are essential for hepatitis B patients to monitor liver function and detect early signs of liver cancer.
Screening is especially crucial for high-risk groups, such as healthcare workers, individuals with high-risk behaviour, and those with a family history of hepatitis.
"Screening is crucial to detect the disease early and to start treatment to prevent complications."
Antenatal screening for pregnant women is also important to prevent vertical transmission of hepatitis from mother to child.
"We now give antiviral treatment to pregnant women with hepatitis B to reduce the risk of transmission to the baby."
One of the barriers to effective hepatitis management is the stigma associated with the disease. There is a significant stigma, which makes
people reluctant to get screened, he adds.
For individuals living with hepatitis, lifestyle modifications also play a crucial role in managing the disease.
Avoid alcohol and traditional medicines that can harm the liver, cautions Dr Sheikh Anwar.
Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding infections are also essential to prevent liver complications.
One significant success in combating hepatitis B has been vaccination programmes.
Dr Sheikh Anwar says since 1989, vaccination of newborns has dramatically reduced transmission rates.
However, many believe that initial vaccination provides lifelong protection, when in fact, some may need booster shots if their antibody levels drop.
While Malaysia has made strides in reducing the prevalence of hepatitis B through vaccination, challenges remain in screening, early diagnosis and public awareness.
Continued efforts in vaccination, routine screening and education to combat hepatitis can improve public health outcomes in Malaysia.