Dr Naveen Ganjoo, Senior Consultant - Hepatology & Integrated Liver Care at Aster RV Hospital, emphasizes that viral hepatitis continues to be a major public health threat in India. Affecting millions, this disease significantly burdens the healthcare system with complications that are, in many cases, preventable. Understanding the causes, risks, and strategies to prevent hepatitis is essential to managing and eventually mitigating its impact across the country.

The Scope of Viral Hepatitis in India

Hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver, can be caused by various viruses: primarily hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Of these, hepatitis B and C present the most pressing health concerns. According to the World Health Organization, hepatitis B affects approximately 4 crore people in India, while hepatitis C prevalence ranges from 60 lakh to 1.2 crore cases. These figures underline the urgent need for robust prevention and treatment measures.

Both hepatitis B and C spread through infected body fluids. High-risk groups include individuals engaging in unprotected sexual activities, those sharing needles or syringes, and infants born to infected mothers. The risk is heightened by practices such as receiving unscreened blood transfusions, organ transplants without thorough screening, and even healthcare workers being exposed to infected blood. Additionally, tattooing or body piercing using contaminated equipment can lead to infection.

Recognizing Symptoms and Managing Complications

Symptoms of hepatitis B and C include fatigue, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In many cases, the infections progress to chronic stages, resulting in serious liver complications such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Although a complete cure remains elusive, current treatments can manage the viruses, significantly reducing the risk of severe outcomes. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are essential to controlling these infections and preventing liver damage.

Prevention Efforts and Government Initiatives

Recognizing the hepatitis epidemic’s gravity, the Indian government launched the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) in 2018. This initiative collaborates with national health programs to promote safe blood products, implement preventive measures, and ensure safe injection practices across India. 

Dr. Ganjoo highlights the critical role of vaccination, especially against hepatitis B, as an essential preventive step. Including the HBV vaccine at birth in the national immunization schedule is a promising start, but widespread implementation remains crucial for success.

While there is no vaccine for hepatitis C, regular screening for at-risk individuals can help detect infections early, enabling timely treatment. Important preventive practices include using sterile needles, practicing safe sex, and avoiding shared personal items like razors and toothbrushes. Safe blood banking, dialysis, and responsible waste disposal further help curb transmission risks. Screening and treating pregnant women are vital to reduce the likelihood of transmission to newborns.

A Multi-Faceted Approach to Combat Hepatitis

Dr. Ganjoo emphasizes that India needs a comprehensive approach to address hepatitis. This includes prioritizing vaccination, regular screenings, and advanced treatment options. Healthcare professionals play a vital role in prioritizing screening for high-risk groups and delivering prompt, effective treatments. Creating a safe, hygienic environment in healthcare facilities is crucial to prevent hospital-acquired hepatitis infections. This requires strict adherence to protocols for using sterile medical equipment and properly disposing of biohazardous waste. Screening blood and organ donations also prevents transmission through transfusions and transplants, while rigorous hygiene standards by healthcare professionals ensure a safer environment for all patients.

Increasing awareness, supporting vaccination efforts, and expanding government-led initiatives are essential to reducing hepatitis prevalence in India. As healthcare systems, communities, and individuals work together, India can make meaningful progress in the fight against this disease, paving the way for a healthier future.