Health professionals in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality have described hepatitis as a “silent killer,” warning that the disease can cause severe liver damage for years without showing noticeable symptoms, making early testing and prevention crucial.
Speaking on Voices of Change on Mike FM on Saturday, July 11, the health professionals urged the public to increase awareness of hepatitis, stressing that although the disease can be fatal if left untreated, it is largely preventable through vaccination, early detection and healthy lifestyle choices.
ĹDisease Control Officer Sophia Adala explained that hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, an organ that performs several vital functions in the human body.
“When we talk about hepatitis, we are referring to inflammation of the liver. The liver is one of the most important organs in the body because it filters the blood, aids digestion, stores essential nutrients and minerals needed for growth, and helps the body fight infections,” she said.
She noted that when the liver becomes inflamed, it is unable to perform these critical functions effectively, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
Adala explained that hepatitis can be caused by viruses, excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, toxins and other harmful substances. She identified the five major types of viral hepatitis, A, B, C, D and E, with Hepatitis B and C being the most common and dangerous due to their potential to cause chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Also speaking on the programme, Midwife Adiali Rita outlined the common modes of transmission of the disease.
She explained that hepatitis B and C can be transmitted through contact with infected blood and certain body fluids, including unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person, sharing needles, syringes, razors or toothbrushes, mother-to-child transmission during childbirth, and accidental needle-stick injuries in healthcare settings.
She added that common symptoms of hepatitis include fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), itchy skin, and joint and muscle aches.
However, she cautioned that many infected persons may not experience symptoms in the early stages of the disease.
Health Promotion Officer Iddrisu Imamu Zanzeh encouraged members of the public to undergo regular hepatitis screening to know their status.
“There are effective vaccines that protect against hepatitis, and they are affordable. If you test negative, you can be vaccinated. If you test positive, you will be referred for further assessment, treatment and monitoring,” he said.
The health professionals urged the public to seek medical attention promptly whenever they experience symptoms, practice safe sex, get vaccinated against hepatitis, avoid sharing personal items such as razors and toothbrushes, and undergo regular screening as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the disease and protect public health.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | Cynthia Afaah
