31/07/2025
🌍 World Hepatitis Day — July 28th
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can progress into serious disease, affecting the health and quality of life of millions of people worldwide. It often develops silently, without visible symptoms. Every 30 seconds, one person dies from a hepatitis-related cause.
✳️ Viral hepatitis is the most common and dangerous form.
It is the leading cause of chronic liver disease globally. Types B and C are responsible for most serious complications, including cirrhosis and liver cancer, accounting for the vast majority of hepatitis-related deaths. Alarmingly, millions of people live with the disease unknowingly.
🟢 Main types of viral hepatitis:
• Hepatitis A causes acute infection and is transmitted through contaminated food or water.
• Hepatitis B and C may become chronic and are primarily transmitted through blood or body fluids.
Hepatitis B is the most widespread globally, while hepatitis C remains underdiagnosed despite its severity.
📌 Hepatitis is not limited to viral forms. Other types include:
• Alcoholic
• Drug-induced
• Autoimmune
• Metabolic (e.g., NASH)
• Toxic (chemicals, herbs, environment)
• Secondary to autoimmune conditions
• Inherited/genetic (e.g., Wilson’s disease)
🦠 Viral hepatitis is transmitted through:
• Blood or body fluids (B and C)
• Unprotected sexual contact (especially B)
• Contaminated food or water (A and E)
• Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth (mostly B)
• Shared needles or instruments (e.g., tattoos, piercings)
• Items with blood contact (razors, toothbrushes)
🔹 It is not transmitted through hugging, kissing, coughing, or sharing utensils. Accurate information reduces stigma and protects communities.
⚠️ Possible symptoms include:
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Fatigue, loss of appetite
• Nausea, fever
• Dark urine, pale stools
• Pain in the upper right abdomen
Many individuals remain asymptomatic, which makes early screening crucial.
🌟 Over 350 million people worldwide live with chronic viral hepatitis. Timely diagnosis and access to treatment can prevent severe and often fatal complications.
✅ Protect yourself with simple but essential measures:
• Get vaccinated against hepatitis A and B
• Get screened if you belong to a high-risk group
• Do not share needles or personal items
• Use condoms
• Choose certified facilities for tattoos and piercings
• Consult your doctor for guidance and personalized advice
💊 Is there treatment?
✔ Hepatitis C is now fully curable with modern antiviral therapy.
✔ Chronic hepatitis B can be effectively managed with long-term treatment.
📌 Today is a powerful reminder that hepatitis can’t wait. Prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are vital.
📞 Phone: 26 442323
🌐 Website: www.peyiagpsurgery.com
📧 Email: info@peyiagpsurgery.com
Dr. Theodora Bartzou
Specialist in General & Family Medicine | GESY Registered GP