Hepatitis is a major public health problem in the Philippines. Hepatitis refers to the inflammatory condition of the liver and is commonly caused by hepatitis viruses (Hepatitis A, B, C, D, E), heavy alcohol intake, some toxins and drugs, other systemic diseases, and infections. According to the Hepatology Society of the Philippines, an estimated 7.3 million adult Filipinos (16.7% of the adult population) are chronically infected with hepatitis B. This rate is extremely high compared to other countries and is more than double the 8% average prevalence of Hepatitis B Virus infection in the Western Pacific region. A 2003 survey showed the prevalence of hepatitis B to be highest in the 20-49 year age group.
Hepatitis A is an acute and short-term disease caused by an infection with the hepatitis A virus. This type of hepatitis is commonly transmitted by consuming contaminated food or water by feces from a person infected with hepatitis. On the other hand, hepatitis B, C, and D are the most likely chronic type of hepatitis. Chronic hepatitis B or C often leads to more serious health problems. People with chronic hepatitis B or C are also at risk for chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Hepatitis B is caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, vaginal secretions, or semen, containing the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Hepatitis C comes from the hepatitis C virus (HCV) and it is transmitted through direct contact with infected body fluids, typically through injection drug use and sexual contact. Hepatitis D also called delta hepatitis, is a serious liver disease caused by the hepatitis D virus (HDV). HDV is contracted through direct contact with infected blood. Hepatitis D is a rare form of hepatitis that only occurs in conjunction with hepatitis B infection. Lastly, hepatitis E is a waterborne disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Hepatitis E virus is mainly found in areas with poor sanitation and typically results from ingesting fecal matter that contaminates the water supply. Other causes of hepatitis include excessive alcohol consumption and other toxins and autoimmune system response. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause liver damage and inflammation and later on may permanently damage the liver and lead to liver failure and cirrhosis, thickening, and scarring of the liver.
Signs and symptoms of acute hepatitis include fatigue, flu-like symptoms, dark urine, pale stool, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss, and yellow skin and eyes which is a sign of jaundice. Diagnosis of hepatitis includes history and physical exam, liver function tests which use blood samples to determine how efficiently your liver works, ultrasound, liver biopsy, and other blood tests to check the presence of the virus and antibodies that are common in conditions like autoimmune hepatitis. One way to prevent hepatitis is through proper hygiene. We should always wash our hands after using the toilet, before preparing food, and before eating. People should also avoid drinking dirty water and eating raw or undercooked foods such as shellfish, oysters, fruits, and vegetables. It is also important to cook oysters, clams, and other shellfish thoroughly. Hepatitis B, C, D can be prevented by not sharing drug needles, not sharing razors and someone else’s toothbrush, and not touching spilled blood. The use of vaccines can also prevent hepatitis. Vaccinations are available to prevent the development of hepatitis A and B. Protect yourself from hepatitis… drink alcoholic beverages moderately, perform proper hygiene, watch the food you eat and have yourself vaccinated.
-PNC-ZDN Rowence Zorilla
References:
1. Patient Resources: Liver Health Information (FAQ)
https://hsp.org.ph/patientresources.php
2. What is hepatitis?
https://www.healthline.com/health/hepatitis
