Hepatitis Awareness Month

Hepatitis Testing Day – May 19*

*Know Your Status – Protect Your Health*

*This important day serves as a reminder of the critical role *hepatitis testing plays in preventing the spread of infection* and ensuring timely access to *life-saving treatment and care*.

*Hepatitis* is a major global health threat, on par *with HIV, Tuberculosis, and Malaria*. It refers to a group of viral infections that target the liver, with *hepatitis B and C* being the most common and dangerous forms.

One of the greatest challenges in fighting hepatitis is that many people do not know they are infected, as the disease often presents *no symptoms until significant liver damage has occurred.* Without early detection, individuals are at risk of developing severe complications, *including cirrhosis and liver cancer.*

Why Testing Matters:

• Early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes.

• *Hepatitis B: While not curable, it is manageable with treatment that can slow disease progression and reduce cancer risk.*

• *Hepatitis C: Curable in most cases with a simple 8–12 week oral treatment regimen.*

• *Testing is the first step toward a cure or effective management.*

Testing Recommendations:

• *All adults aged 18 and older should be tested at least once in their lifetime.*

• *Every pregnancy should include hepatitis screening.*

*There is no vaccine for hepatitis C, but it can be cured.*

*There is a vaccine for hepatitis B, and lifelong management is possible even in chronic cases.*

Let’s raise awareness, encourage testing, and *work together toward a hepatitis-free future.*

*Dr. Robin