Viral Hepatitis: Active participation of society is vital

Opinion Article by Mariana Cardoso, Member of the Portuguese Association for the Study of the Liver (APEF)

Viral hepatitis is a liver disease caused by various viruses, the main ones being designated by the letters A, B, C, D, and E. Each has specific transmission modes, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures. Hepatitis A is generally transmitted by ingesting contaminated food or water, while hepatitis B and C are often spread through contact with contaminated blood, unprotected sex, or from mother to child during childbirth. Hepatitis D occurs only in individuals already infected with the hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis E is similar to hepatitis A and is more common in certain regions of the world. Hepatitis symptoms can range from asymptomatic to manifestations such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, some forms of hepatitis can progress to more serious conditions, such as cirrhosis or liver cancer. Prevention is essential and includes measures such as vaccination (available for hepatitis A and B), safe sex practices, not sharing needles or sharp objects, and careful food hygiene. Regular testing is also essential, especially for hepatitis B and C, which can be asymptomatic for years. World Hepatitis Day, celebrated on July 28th, was established by the World Health Organization to raise awareness of these diseases and promote access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services. The date honors the birth of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg, Nobel Prize winner for the discovery of the hepatitis B virus. Significant progress has been made in Portugal in the fight against viral hepatitis.