World Hepatitis Day is observed every year on 28 July to raise awareness of viral hepatitis. The World Health Organization estimates that hundreds of millions of people live with chronic hepatitis B or C, far more than live with HIV, and that viral hepatitis causes more than a million deaths a year, mostly from cirrhosis and liver cancer.
How do they compare?
- Numbers: chronic hepatitis B and C together affect many times more people than HIV does
- Infectiousness: hepatitis B is far more infectious than HIV and spreads through blood and body fluids, including from mother to baby
- Silent course: all three can be silent for years, which is why testing is needed
- Treatment: hepatitis C can now usually be cured with antiviral tablets, hepatitis B can be controlled with medicine, and HIV can be controlled with lifelong therapy
The five hepatitis viruses
Hepatitis A and E spread through contaminated food and water and usually cause short-term illness. Hepatitis B, C and D spread through blood and body fluids and can become chronic.
Prevention
- Hepatitis B vaccine for all infants, children and at-risk adults; hepatitis A vaccine where advised
- Safe injections, screened blood and sterile instruments for tattoos, piercing and dental work
- Clean drinking water and good hand hygiene
- Testing for hepatitis B and C at least once in adulthood, and during each pregnancy for hepatitis B
Homeopathic treatment can be used as supportive care for general wellbeing alongside medical monitoring and treatment.
Learn more
To discuss your situation with a Welling Homeopathy doctor, contact a clinic or call +91 80 80 850 950 for a consultation in person or online.
Disclaimer: this page is for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary from person to person.
