New Delhi, July 28: On the occasion of World Hepatitis Day, specialists from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi have urged the public to remain vigilant about viral hepatitis, fatty liver, and alcohol-related liver diseases. They emphasized that timely diagnosis, regular check-ups, and appropriate treatment can significantly prevent severe complications and fatalities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.3 million people died from viral hepatitis worldwide in 2024, highlighting the seriousness of this disease.
Professor Dr. Pramod Garg, head of the Gastroenterology Department at AIIMS, explained that hepatitis is a general term referring to inflammation of the liver. The three main causes are viral infections, excessive alcohol consumption, and fatty liver disease. He noted that hepatitis A and E viruses typically cause acute infections, leading to symptoms such as loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice, and weakness within a few weeks. In contrast, hepatitis B and C viruses can persist in the body for a long time, resulting in chronic hepatitis, which may progress to severe conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Dr. Garg pointed out that the rising alcohol consumption in India has led to an increase in cases of alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis. Additionally, fatty liver disease is emerging as a significant health challenge. Factors such as obesity, diabetes, lack of physical activity, sedentary lifestyles, and the growing trend of ultra-processed, high-calorie foods are major contributors to fatty liver.
He warned that considering fatty liver as a minor issue could be a grave mistake. If left untreated, it can lead to steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and ultimately liver cancer. Previously, liver cancer was primarily observed in patients with hepatitis B and C, but now cases are rising among those with fatty liver as well.
Regarding early signs of fatty liver, Dr. Garg mentioned that consistent weight gain, an expanding abdomen, or increasing obesity could indicate the initial stages of the condition. However, there are often no clear symptoms. Some patients may experience mild abdominal discomfort, indigestion, a feeling of heaviness after eating, or nausea. Diagnosis is confirmed through ultrasound and blood tests.
Commenting on WHO’s goal to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030, Dr. Garg stated that achieving this target is feasible, but timely screening and treatment for hepatitis B and C are crucial. He noted that while there has been a decrease in infection cases in India, a significant number of people are still affected by the disease.
Professor Dr. Shalimar from the Gastroenterology Department highlighted vaccination as the most effective measure to prevent hepatitis B. He explained that under the national vaccination program, infants receive their first dose within 12 to 24 hours of birth, followed by two additional doses at one month and six months, providing over 95% protection. Completing all three doses significantly reduces the risk of hepatitis B infection.
Dr. Shalimar also mentioned a new hope in the treatment of hepatitis B. He shared that a recently published international trial showed positive results for a new molecule. Previous medications only managed to control the virus but did not eliminate it completely. After 72 weeks of using the new drug, about 20% of patients showed a complete eradication of the virus. He described this as a significant breakthrough in hepatitis B treatment and expressed optimism that this medication will soon be available in India.
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